The cost of perinatal depression and anxiety in Australia

In Australia, one in five mothers and one in ten fathers/partners experience PNDA. There are psychological, social and physical vulnerabilities that can increase the likelihood of PNDA. Read the full report

Effects of clinical aromatherapy for anxiety and depression in the high risk postpartum woman

Abstract: The aim of this study was to determine if aromatherapy improves anxiety and/or depression in the high risk postpartum woman and to provide a complementary therapy tool for healthcare practitioners.

Results: The pilot study indicates positive findings with minimal risk for the use of aromatherapy as a complementary therapy in both anxiety and depression scales with the postpartum woman. Read the study

The tip of the iceberg: postpartum suicidality in Israel

Postpartum suicidality, a result of extreme distress or depression, is a tragedy for the woman, infant, and family. Screening for postpartum depression (PPD) is mandatory in Israel, including a question on suicidal ideation. This study presents and analyzes data regarding rates, trends and characteristics of postpartum women who considered, attempted, or completed suicide, to help direct services aimed at preventing these occurrences. Read the full article

Prevention of postpartum suicidality in Israel – commentary

Postpartum suicidality in Israel had not been systematically studied until the recent important investigation by Glasser and colleagues. The main aim of this commentary is to emphasize that preventive efforts should continue and expand, especially among at-risk groups. Read the full commentary

Pregnancy-Related Anxiety vs Generalized Anxiety

Though pregnancy-related anxiety (PrA) has become more recognized, there still remain questions about the clinical differences in how PrA manifests vs conventional constructs and measures.

This study identified 2 distinct features – specific concerns about the child’s health and concerns about birth. Furthermore, they found significant differences in the long term patterns of these 2 factors and also some association between general measure of anxiety and depression. Read the study

Children’s Institute – Influence of norms and values on Pregnancy Termination services in South Africa

Abstract: As front-line providers, nurses play an integral role in the implementation of South Africa’s Choice on Termination of Pregnancy Act and, thus, the promotion of women’s reproductive rights. In light of low levels of support for termination of pregnancy services in South Africa, it is important to understand nurses’ views of such services. The purpose of this study was to examine how nurses’ norms and values shape the provision of abortion services. Read the study

Comparison of mental health screening tools for detecting antenatal depression and anxiety disorders

Published by the Perinatal Mental Health Project (PMHP), South Africa

Antenatal depression and anxiety disorders are highly prevalent in low and middle-income countries. Screening of pregnant women in primary care antenatal settings provides an opportunity for entry to care, but data are needed on the performance of different screening tools. In this paper they have compared five widely-used questionnaires in a sample of pregnant women in urban South Africa. Read the paper