ABSTRACT:
Postpartum depression (PPD) represents a major public health issue that affects women globally, with substantial implications for maternal well-being, infant development, and family dynamics. Unlike the transient and relatively mild "baby blues," PPD involves persistent emotional, psychological, and physical changes that can severely impair a mother’s ability to care for herself and her child. This comprehensive review explores the multifaceted etiology of PPD, encompassing hormonal, genetic, psychological, and social factors that contribute to its onset. It also examines the diverse risk factors, including hormonal fluctuations postpartum, genetic predispositions, pre-existing mental health conditions, and socio-environmental stressors such as lack of social support and marital discord. The clinical manifestations of PPD are varied, ranging from persistent sadness and fatigue to severe anxiety and difficulty bonding with the infant. Accurate diagnosis is essential and is typically achieved through standardized screening tools like the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Effective treatment modalities are discussed, including pharmacological interventions, primarily selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and non-pharmacological approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT). The importance of social support and counseling in the management of PPD is also highlighted. This article underscores recent advances in PPD research, such as the identification of potential biomarkers for earlier diagnosis and the exploration of the gut-brain axis and nutritional interventions. The need for early identification and intervention is emphasized, as these measures are crucial in mitigating the adverse effects of PPD on mothers and their families. By providing a detailed understanding of PPD's etiology, risk factors, clinical manifestations, and treatment options, this review aims to equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge necessary to effectively address this pervasive condition.
Cite this article:
Neha Bharti. Understanding Postpartum Depression: A Comprehensive Review. A and V Pub Journal of Nursing and Medical Research. 2024; 3(4):191-4. doi: 10.52711/ijnmr.2024.44
Cite(Electronic):
Neha Bharti. Understanding Postpartum Depression: A Comprehensive Review. A and V Pub Journal of Nursing and Medical Research. 2024; 3(4):191-4. doi: 10.52711/ijnmr.2024.44 Available on: https://ijnmronline.com/AbstractView.aspx?PID=2024-3-4-13