Antidepressants and Postnatal Depression
Author Information
Author(s): Howard Louise M, Boath Elizabeth, Henshaw Carol
Primary Institution: Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London
Hypothesis
Are antidepressant drugs effective in preventing postnatal depression?
Conclusion
The evidence does not allow us to make any recommendations about the role of antidepressants in preventing postpartum depression.
Supporting Evidence
- Postnatal depression occurs in 10 to 15 percent of mothers.
- Two small studies were found that examined the effect of antidepressants on postnatal depression.
- One study found sertraline was more effective than placebo in preventing a recurrence of postpartum major depression.
Takeaway
This study looked at whether antidepressants can help stop new moms from getting sad after having a baby, but it found that we don't really know if they work.
Methodology
A systematic review of randomized controlled trials of antidepressants to prevent postnatal depression.
Potential Biases
The studies included only white married women of middle to high socioeconomic status, which may not represent all women at risk of PND.
Limitations
Only two small trials were found, and both had serious methodological limitations.
Participant Demographics
Women who were pregnant or had given birth in the previous six weeks, with a history of at least one episode of postnatal depression.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.04
Statistical Significance
p=0.04
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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