Post Natal Depression

Ray KL, Hodnett ED.
Caregiver support for postpartum depression (Cochrane Review).
In: The Cochrane Library, Issue 1, 2002. Oxford: Update Software, Abstract.

Two studies of 137 women were included. Although there was potential for bias in one study, professional or social support was associated with a reduction in postnatal depression.

Hoffbrand S, Howard L, Crawley H.
Antidepressant treatment for post-natal depression (Cochrane Review).
In: The Cochrane Library, Issue 1, 2002. Oxford: Update Software, Abstract.
Only one trial was of sufficient quality to be included. This concluded that fluoxetine was as effective as cognitive behavioural therapy in the short term.

Lawrie TA, Herxheimer A, Dalton K.
Oestrogens and progestogens for preventing and treating postnatal depression (Cochrane Review).
In: The Cochrane Library, Issue 1, 2002. Oxford: Update Software, Abstract.

Progestogens do not reduce postnatal depression and long-acting norethisterone enanthate is associated with an increased incidence. Oestrogens have been shown to improve depression but their side effects in the postnatal period may limit usage.

See also:
Chapter 11 Deaths from Psychiatric Causes.
Why Mothers Die: The Confidential Enquiries into Maternal Deaths in the United Kingdom, http://www.cemd.org.uk.

Review and key recommendations following deaths from severe mental illness.

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