Perinatal depression – An update

Abstract

Motherhood is challenging both physically and emotionally. Depression and anxiety are common women. Perinatal depression is a major depressive episode happening during or after the pregnancy. It is very often ignored leading to a negative impact on the quality of life of the woman, child and the partner. Obstetricians need to be alert and be aware of the associated risk factors and how to screen for perinatal depression. Undiagnosed or untreated perinatal depression can lead to devastating complications both in the mother and the child. Cognitive behavioural therapy and medications are to be prescribed considering the risks to the mother and the unborn child.