Yesterday, the Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR) released the results of a study on the divergent views of male and female doctors when it comes to women and depression. Of particular note to the postpartum depression community is this, as reported by Newswise Medical News:
"On the topic of risk factors for postpartum depression, female doctors were considerably more likely to mention difficult or complicated pregnancies or deliveries; lack of support or help with the baby; and difficulty dealing with a newborn, including sickness. In general, female doctors were more likely to attribute a woman’s sense of being overwhelmed as a source of postpartum depression.
‘Women doctors, many of whom are mothers themselves, are likely more sensitive to the immense burden that new mothers can place on themselves for the health and care of their new baby,” Jo Parrish [vice president of communications for SWHR] said. “When things go wrong, women can blame themselves, which can lead to sadness or feelings of guilt and contribute to depression. It is an issue about which women need to talk openly and doctors need to be mindful.’"
On the other hand, the report noted that strong majorities of both women and men doctors believe it is safe for women to take medication for depression in the postpartum period and under the right circumstances during pregnancy, opinions not as strongly shared by women in the general population.
And a side note:
The Society of Women’s Health Research will be holding an online moderation discussion entitled “Perimenopause and Mood Disorders” onTuesday, January 29, 2008, at 2:00 p.m. EST. Peter Schmidt, M.D., a clinician and an investigator at the National Institute of Mental Health, will answer questions about mood disorders in the perimenopause period, a time of significant changes in women’s lives that can impact mental health. Sherry Marts, Ph.D., vice president of scientific affairs for the Society, will participate in the discussion to answer questions about the Society’s work in this important area. Visit http://www.womenshealthresearch.org and click on "events" for more information.
