female_health

Postpartum Depression Screening + Support

1 in 7 women experience postpartum depression. EPDS ≥ 10 indicates probable depression. Combined CBT + (if needed) SSRI cuts duration by 50%. USPSTF recommends screening at every postpartum visit.

Nutrition

Pattern

Mediterranean + omega-3 rich

Foods to emphasise

Fatty fish 2-3×/wk (DHA + EPA)
Walnuts, flaxseed, chia (ALA)
Leafy greens (folate)
Eggs (choline)
Complex carbs (serotonin precursor)

Foods to limit

Alcohol
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4) — associated with higher depression risk

Exercise

Aerobic

Walking 30 min × 5 d/wk has antidepressant effect comparable to mild-moderate SSRI in postpartum trials.

Strength

2-3×/wk for body-image + energy.

Flexibility

Postnatal yoga (RCT-validated for PPD).

Weekly target

150 minutes

Supplements

Omega-3 (EPA-dominant)

1-2 g EPA/day

RCT

Modest antidepressant effect; safe in BF.

Vitamin D3

1000-2000 IU/day if 25(OH)D < 30

RCT

Low D associated with PPD risk.

Vitamin B-complex

Daily

observational

Methylated forms if MTHFR polymorphism.

Monitor + cadence

What to track

EPDS at every postpartum visit + 6 + 12 months
Functional impact (eating, sleep beyond infant, self-care)
Suicidal ideation question every visit

Red flags — seek care

Suicidal ideation OR thoughts of harming infant → urgent perinatal psych assessment (same-day)
Psychosis (hallucinations, delusions, severe agitation) → ER
Inability to care for self or baby → urgent escalation

Sources

USPSTF Perinatal Depression 2019
ACOG Committee Opinion 757 (2018)
RCOG Green-top 64 (2014)

Make this plan yours.

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