Pediatricians’ views of postpartum depression: A self-administered survey

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.