Screening
Although there are a number of rating scales for depression, one that has been validated in the postpartum population is the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) (Table 2).[17] A new instrument called the Postpartum Depression Screening Scale (PDSS)[18,19] also shows promise as a screening tool.
Less severe presentations of depressive illness are often missed and frequently dismissed by patients and healthcare professionals as normal after childbirth. It is generally advised that screening for postpartum affective disorders should become routine. The suggested ideal time to screen is at the standard postpartum medical visit at 6 weeks and at subsequent pediatric visits.[2]
© 2001 Medscape
Cite this: Postpartum Depression - Medscape - Aug 23, 2001.
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