Post-Partum Depression: A Case Study

It is important that clinicians and other health care professional discuss and thoroughly explain results and accuracies of the screening. Education about post-partum depression and the effects on mother and infant is important for clinicians and health care professionals. Professionals should have ongoing training and obtain up to date knowledge for screenings, intervention, and best practices. Best practices for post-partum depression also include appropriate protocol during positive screenings. The protocol should include referrals for DSM-IV (currently DSM-V) Interview and follow ups for effective treatment (Horowitz, Murphy, Gregory & Wojcik, 2009). It is recommended that screenings are conducted during the perinatal period as opposed …show more content…
Prenatal care decreases health risks during pregnancy. Prenatal care promotes and increases the chance of a healthy pregnancy, delivery, and infant. Prenatal visits allows the doctor to monitor and identify problems and complications that require treatment. Low birth weight can occur in infants when mothers do not undergo prenatal care. The results of low birth weight can result in death of an infant. Infants that are born with a low birth rate and no prenatal are five times likely to die than infants that have received prenatal care (Reichman, Corman, Noonan & Schwartz-Soicher, 2006). Prenatal care should begin three months before conception. Prenatal care impacts the health of both mother and infant. Prenatal care provides education and can relieve stress of pregnancy to the expectant parents. Prenatal care promotes long term health of the child. It may increase the use of pediatric healthcare, best parenting practices, promotes physical and mental health of parents (Noonan, Corman, Noonan & Schwartz-Soicher & Reichman, 2006). Postnatal care occurs after child birth. Mother and child are monitored by physician. Postnatal care is a vital part of recovery and life for both mothers and infants. Postnatal care visits allow the doctor to monitor and identify any health problems of mother and infant. During this time emotional problems or changes are identified as well. The benefits of postnatal care include education of feeding techniques (i.e. Breastfeeding), maintaining infant and maternal health, and expectations during the first year. Postnatal care promotes a healthy lifestyle for mother through encouraging rest, nutrition, and physical health care (Haran, Driel, Mitchell, & Broddrib,