Congratulations! While the birth of a baby is one of the most joyful of events, maternal postpartum depression is the most common complication of childbearing, often going undiagnosed and unrecognized.
The first visits a mother makes with her pediatrician after her baby is born is an important time to ask about a new mom’s mood and feelings, and if needed, connect mothers with the help and support they need. To support our new moms, their newborn infants, and families as a whole, Willows is offering the Edinburgh Postnatal Scale, a validated screening tool for postpartum depression. The 10-question self-rating scale is an efficient and effective way of identifying mothers who are at risk for postpartum depression and might benefit from follow up care and support.
When a mother comes into our office with their newborn for their baby’s two week, two month, and four month well visits, we will ask the new mom to fill out the Edinburgh screening questionnaire. At that visit we will score the questionnaire, and based on the results, identify any possible concerns or risks. If the questionnaire indicates any concerns, we will discuss the results with you and offer assistance if needed.
As always, at Willows we strive to provide the best and highest quality care to our families. If you have any questions at any time about how you feel during this exciting yet often stressful time surrounding childbirth, please let us know and we will do our best to assist you.