Summary
Objective: To assess pediatricians’ knowledge and views about postpartum depression (PPD).
Method: Self-administered survey of a nationwide random sample of general pediatricians.
Results: Of 1200 eligible pediatricians sampled, 389 responded (32%). Half of pediatricians (49%) reported little or no education about PPD. Many respondents (51%) underestimated the overall incidence of PPD. Most pediatricians (80%) estimated the incidence in their practice as less than the published incidence. Few pediatricians felt confident they would recognize PPD (31%). Pediatricians were rarely familiar with available screening tools (7%). Many pediatricians (51%) felt screening was feasible in their practices. In logistic regression analysis, intent to begin screening was independently associated with <6 years in practice, positive view of feasibility and greater awareness of PPD.
Conclusions: Pediatricians sampled have limited awareness of PPD and are unfamiliar with screening tools. Efforts to involve pediatricians in screening should address these knowledge barriers.
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Nancy E. Law deceased November 9, 2003.
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Wiley, C., Burke, G., Gill, P. et al. Pediatricians’ views of postpartum depression: A self-administered survey. Arch Womens Ment Health 7, 231–236 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00737-004-0058-4
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00737-004-0058-4