Challenges of Perinatal Depression Care in Mexico City Health Centers

Abstract

Background Perinatal depression is a common mental disorder regarded as a severe public health problem. Studies have shown that incorporating mental health care into primary health services that provide pregnancy care makes it easier for women to seek help for depressive symptoms. In this context, the following question is of interest: How prepared are primary health services in Mexico City that provide pregnancy and postpartum care to treat perinatal depression? This article seeks to explore the perceptions and knowledge of perinatal depression in health professionals and analyze the barriers to its care at primary care centers in Mexico City. Methods An exploratory study with a qualitative approach was conducted. Doctors, nurses, social workers who provide maternal and childcare, mental health personnel, and the directors of four centers were interviewed. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed for thematic analysis. Results Most primary care personnel are unaware of the Official Standard that recommends providing maternal mental health care during the perinatal period. There is no initiative for its incorporation into routine care. A significant barrier to its implementation is health professionals’ biased, stereotyped perception of perinatal depression, motherhood, and the role of women. Other barriers include the workload of health professionals, the division of care between professionals, and the lack of communication between the latter. Women with psychological symptoms are not referred to mental health staff in a timely manner. Social workers are in closer contact with women and are more willing to address their emotional distress. Conclusion Maternal mental health care, contingent on pregnancy, childbirth, and puerperium care at primary care centers is currently not possible due to the lack of knowledge, barriers, and directors’ dependence on hospital management decisions.

Bibliometric analysis of peer-reviewed literature on perinatal depression in Mexico

“…The above makes indispensable the constant training and actualization of the health care personnel of the first level and obstetric to identify the risk factors in early stages from preconception to prenatal (Santiago et al, 2023). However, most primary care personnel are unaware of this public health problem that needs to be considered by policymakers and directors of the centers (Navarrete et al, 2022). The estimated costs of PND are between 32300 and 94000 USD, with the higher expenditures due to reduced economic productivity, more preterm births, and increased health expenses.…”

Interprofessional collaboration on mothers with perinatal mental health problems and disorders: A scoping review

“…Perinatal depression is defined as a type of depression that occurs during pregnancy up to twenty four months after giving birth (Howard & Khalifeh, 2020). The prevalence during pregnancy is estimated to be between 9,2% and 19,2% and between 9,5% and 19,7% during the postpartum period (Navarrete et al, 2022). Perinatal mental health issue is mental disorders that often occur in women during pregnancy and one year after giving birth (Michael et al, 2020).…”