The Postpartum Depression Project was developed with the support of a grant from the American Psychiatric Association in recognition of the frequency, under diagnosis and under treatment of postpartum depression and the long term serious adverse effects of untreated maternal depression on women and their children. Postpartum depression is the most common complication of childbirth and affects approximately 15% of mothers.  In addition, a work group convened as a result of a bill (LD 792) promoting education about PPD introduced to the 123^rd Maine Legislature concluded that there is a strong need for widespread education among healthcare providers about the significance of PPD, the viability of screening, and the possible treatment options.

The focus of this project is to provide training programs across medical and mental health specialties and easy access to educational materials to aid in the screening, assessment, and treatment of women who experience depression during pregnancy or the postpartum period. Psychiatrists involved with the project who have developed expertise in this area are available to provide educational presentations. There are additional resources posted on this website that can be of assistance with screening evaluation and treatment. The ultimate goal is to increase the recognition and treatment of depression both during pregnancy and the postpartum period and to encourage collaboration between psychiatry and other specialties in pursuit of this goal.

In addition, psychiatrists participating in the Consultation Project have received training regarding assessment and treatment of perinatal mood disorders, particularly psychotropic medication usage, and will be available to provide informal consultation to practitioners in other specialties such as Obstetrics and Family practice. For information about how to become involved with this resource please read more about the Consultation Project. For more information about the PPD Project please contact P. Lynn Ouellette M.D. at plopsymd@myfairpoint.net .