Aims for Obstetrics Practices Integrating Perinatal Mental Health Care

Detect

Provide psychoeducation, destigmatize perinatal mental health conditions, and help engage perinatal individuals in mental health care using a strength-based and culturally responsive approach.
Implement screening for perinatal depression and anxiety at the initial prenatal visit, later in pregnancy, and at postpartum visits. Mental health screening should be implemented with systems in place to ensure timely access to assessment and diagnosis, effective treatment, and appropriate monitoring and follow-up, based on severity.
Implement screening for bipolar disorder at initiation of care or after a positive depression or anxiety screen.

When a perinatal mental health screening tool is positive, assess the patient and determine treatment approach.

Develop and use a repository of mental health resources and treatment referral sources tailored to the needs of your patient population.
Refer patients who screen positive for psychotherapy, group therapy, or other treatment and support options.
Start medication treatment when indicated.

Follow up and monitor perinatal mental health conditions once treatment is initiated.
Ensure mental health care is ongoing until at least one year postpartum with transition to primary care or another provider as needed.