Postpartum Depression in Correctional Populations.
Aikansha ChawlaNandini L BansalCelina LiuAndrew Toyin OlagunjuPublished in: Journal of correctional health care : the official journal of the National Commission on Correctional Health Care (2024)
This viewpoint was developed to revisit the burden and risks associated with postpartum depression (PPD) among incarcerated women based on a thematic review of the literature. Around one third of incarcerated pregnant women have symptoms of moderate to severe depression perinatally. In particular, PPD negatively impacts the well-being of parents and their children. Mitigating the consequences of PPD through screening, promotion of protective factors, and early identification coupled with treatment may have a substantial impact on the overall well-being of the affected children and postpartum individuals. Important risk factors for PPD in correctional populations include previous mental illness diagnosis, a lack of social support, poor pre- and perinatal care, inability to breastfeed, a lack of skin-to-skin contact, and partner violence. We recommend that correctional facilities promote the development of on-site mother-baby units and streamline the visitation process for newborns to visit parents. Improved access to pre- and postnatal care, education, and doula support is highly recommended, as well as consideration of community-based alternatives to incarceration, particularly in correctional settings with underserved mental health care needs. Future studies are needed to estimate the burden of PPD in correctional settings, identify system-related risk factors, and implement evidence-based guidelines for PPD and associated psychosocial sequelae.
Keyphrases
- human immunodeficiency virus
- depressive symptoms
- antiretroviral therapy
- pregnant women
- social support
- hiv infected
- mental illness
- risk factors
- healthcare
- mental health
- sleep quality
- quality improvement
- young adults
- palliative care
- soft tissue
- pregnancy outcomes
- pain management
- hiv testing
- early onset
- polycystic ovary syndrome
- risk assessment
- metabolic syndrome
- affordable care act
- men who have sex with men
- chronic pain
- replacement therapy