Postpartum Depression in Mothers of Infants in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: Risk Factors and Management Strategies

Abstract

Objective The aim of this study is to assess incidence, risk factors, and management strategies for Postpartum depression (PPD) in mothers of neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) infants.

Study Design A total of 131 mothers completed the study assessment tool (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale with additional questions). Score of 10 or above was considered to indicate risk for PPD (subclinical depression). Risk factors were examined with particular emphasis on length of stay (LOS).

Results Approximately 19.1% of mothers experienced (subclinical) PPD. Depression during current and previous pregnancy, and problems with current delivery were strong predicting risk factors for PPD. As the LOS increased beyond 2 weeks, the odds of PPD risks initially increased, then leveled off, and then decreased after 31 days.

Conclusion We recommend that the mothers of NICU infants be routinely screened for PPD and aggressively treated.

Keywords

postpartum depression - neonatal intensive care - parent friendly practices - length of stay

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