Pregnant Women: Undertreated for Depression?

Researchers from the University of Michigan Medical School have found evidence that pregnant women are being undertreated for depression. 276 women seeking prenatal care and identified as at high risk for depression completed a number of diagnostic interviews during their pregnancy. Of women who met criteria for a diagnosis of major depression, only 33% were receiving any kind of depression treatment. Further, there was no correlation between depressed status and treatment use. The authors concluded that major depressive disorder was being undertreated in pregnant women, and they recommended increased attention to detection, follow-up, and intervention in this population. This study appeared in General Hospital Psychiatry.