PMH-C Maternal Well-being & Emotional Support 4

Question 1

A client who delivered 6 weeks ago endorses recurrent flashbacks of her emergency cesarean, hypervigilance when hearing hospital sounds, and avoidance of medical appointments. The most likely diagnosis is:

Accepted Answer

Birth-related PTSD

Answer

Flashbacks, hyperarousal, and avoidance following a traumatic birth experience are the core symptoms of birth-related PTSD, which is distinct from postpartum depression or general anxiety.

Question 2

Which population has a significantly elevated risk of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders compared to the general obstetric population?

Accepted Answer

Women with a personal or family history of depression or anxiety

Answer

A personal or family history of depression or anxiety is one of the strongest predictors of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, increasing risk two- to threefold.

Question 3

When supporting a client with postpartum depression, motivational interviewing techniques are most appropriate when:

Accepted Answer

The client is ambivalent about seeking treatment or making lifestyle changes

Answer

Motivational interviewing is most effective when a client is ambivalent about change, helping them explore their own reasons for seeking help and overcoming barriers to treatment.

Question 4

A client with postpartum depression expresses shame about her symptoms, saying 'I should be happy — I have a healthy baby.' The PMH-C provider's most therapeutic response addresses:

Accepted Answer

Validating her feelings while providing psychoeducation about the biological basis of PPD

Answer

Combining validation with psychoeducation reduces shame by normalizing the experience and explaining that PPD is a medical condition, not a reflection of parenting quality or gratitude.

Question 5

Galactorrhea in a postpartum, non-breastfeeding client accompanied by depressive symptoms should prompt evaluation for:

Accepted Answer

Hyperprolactinemia, which can cause both galactorrhea and depression

Answer

Hyperprolactinemia can cause both galactorrhea and depressive symptoms in postpartum women and should be ruled out through laboratory evaluation before attributing symptoms to a primary mood disorder.

(PMH-C) Perinatal Mental Health Certification Practice Test

(PMH-C) Perinatal Mental Health Certification Practice Test

PMH-C Maternal Well-being & Emotional Support 4