Type of publication:
Conference abstract
Author(s):
*Jones, C.
Citation:
BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, April 2015, vol./is. 122/(324)
Abstract:
Introduction Having felt 'lost' myself and almost 'let down' with the management of my own postnatal depression (PND), I wondered whether my view was an anomaly or whether there is a general mismanagement of the illness but from a patient's point of view. There is an increased understanding and awareness of the illness in recent years, largely in part to the use of social media and charitable awareness campaigns. Methods I created a simple online survey asking volunteers who have had PND to provide answers to questions surrounding their help seeking behaviour and how they feel the health professionals treated them and how they feel that their health professionals could improve. This survey was shared amongst a private, online postnatal depression forum in which individuals could opt to take part. There was also an opportunity for those taking part to add 'free text'. These results were collated and analysed. Results A total of 53 responses were obtained. 29% of the responses state they became unwell during pregnancy, 10% between birth and hospital discharge, 22% in the first 6 weeks and the remainder throughout the rest of the first year. All ladies experienced more than one symptom, but in their view, the most alarming symptoms were anxiety (15%), anger (13%), no bond with baby (18%) and imagining or planning own death (24%). 9% of all responders did not seek any help, 38% obtained help in first 6 weeks, 22% in first 6 months and the remainder thereafter. 83% of responders went to their own GP as their first contact. When asked about the first point of contact, in relation to ease of appointment, empathy, knowledge and respect, the responses were mixed. The free text highlighted a few common themes of concern, concerns over computer usage in consultations and lack of follow-up arrangements. Conclusion In conclusion, PND management varies between locations. There are positives and negatives within the patient's journey. I believe we can improve this by returning to our instincts, by acknowledging the distress and managing the mother with compassion.
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