According to a new study, women who had previously suffered an eating disorder or some form of physical or sexual abuse are more likely to develop postpartum depression. The number is particularly staggering when you consider that one in every 10 women typically struggles with postpartum depression at some point after their pregnancy.
As a result of their findings, the researchers from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine insist that regular mental health screenings should be merged with typical prenatal care.
"Pregnancy and the postpartum period is a very vulnerable time for women" -- the study's lead author Dr. Samantha Meltzer-Brody, director of UNC's Perinatal Psychiatry Program, said in a university news release.
"Screening by obstetrical providers is really important because they can refer patients for appropriate treatment," she added. "And that can prevent long-lasting problems for mom and baby.
"The message we need to get out is that these things are incredibly common and routine screenings need to occur," said Meltzer-Brody. "[Pregnancy] is a time when people are really motivated to make changes and get treatment, because that can have serious consequences for how you do and for how your children do."
In the United States, approximately six to eight percent of women develop some sort of eating disorder. On top of that nearly 25 percent experience some sort of physical or sexual abuse.
This study appeared in the Journal of Women’s Health.
Call 1-877-398-2002 Anytime To Discuss Treatment Options if you or a loved one is struggling with mental health issues.
To search by State and City instead of by Zip Code / Postal Code, select a state from the list below.
For individuals, friends and families who are looking to connect during life's challenging times. Share personal experiences, evaluate information and get support during times of need, illness, treatment or recovery.
The information provided on the PsyWeb.com is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a patient/site visitor and his/her health professional. This information is solely for informational and educational purposes. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Neither the owners or employees of PsyWeb.com nor the author(s) of site content take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading this site. Always speak with your primary health care provider before engaging in any form of self treatment. Please see our Legal Statement for further information.
SupportGroups.com provides a support network for those dealing with mental health and other life's challenges. Click on the following links to get the support in a confidential, caring environment.
