Postpartum depression

Abstract

This discussion presents current research findings on postpartum depression (PPD) in the adolescent female. PPD is defined and then the etiopathogenesis of PPD are reviewed. Emphasis is placed on screening by the primary care clinician to identify this condition and issues in this regard are discussed. PPD management is considered including both nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic approaches. Recent research on PPD in the adolescent is presented. It is the recommendation of the authors that primary care clinicians become more knowledgeable about PPD to make an early identification and suggest effective means of management to reduce the devastation PPD can cause in the young mother, her newborn baby, and her family in general.