Perinatal depression

depression is a signifi cant mental and public health problem and may be one of the most disabling disorders among women of childbear-ing age. 1 Perinatal depression is associated with a multitude of negative sequelae for women, children, and families, including poor maternal-fetal attachment, adverse neona-tal outcomes (low birth weight, preterm birth, small for gestational age), poor infant attachment, early childhood developmental delays, and relationship strain. 2-4 Despite the prevalence and sequelae of perinatal depression , most women who present with depressive symptoms are not screened and do not receive adequate treatment. Abstract: Perinatal depression is a common condition with signifi cant adverse maternal, fetal, neonatal, and early childhood outcomes. The perinatal period is an opportune time to screen, diagnose, and treat depression. Improved recognition of perinatal depression, particularly among low-income women, can lead to improved perinatal health outcomes.