Perinatal mental health screenings are important in detecting and diagnosing<unk>  and postpartum depression early. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists is one of the many maternal health organizations that strongly encourage universal screening for expectant and postpartum women for depression as part of routine obstetric care. In fact, many states, including California have already legislated laws that require providers to screen patients during visits because they recognize that early screenings can expedite the process in receiving effective treatment. The Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9) is a screening tool typically used to detect depression. Another tool, the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, was developed for the postnatal period, but has also been validated for use during pregnancy. PHQ-9 is a reliable depression severity scale that was formulated in accordance with DSM-IV criteria for depression, consisting of 9 items correlating to the 9 criteria listed in DSM-IV. It is a shortened version of the PHQ and has been assessed for comparable sensitivity and specificity. The screening test is self-administered to patients and are usually performed at the primary care clinic. However, it is not enough to just provide mental health screenings to at risk patients. Interventions such as referrals to treatment and mental health monitoring should be implemented in health care systems in order to ensure these women are helped consistently throughout their recovery journey. Studies suggest that obese woman tend to suffer more frequently from mental health issues and should discuss any symptoms with their doctor at the first prenatal appointment.
Antenatal depression
Asynclitic birth
Fetal warfarin syndrome
Perinatal asphyxia
Paternal depression
Neonatal infection
Neonatal sepsis
Maternal-fetal conflict