PMH-C Perinatal Mental Health Disorders & Assessment 4

Question 1

When screening a postpartum patient using the EPDS, which score threshold is most commonly used to indicate possible postpartum depression requiring further assessment?

Accepted Answer

Score ≥ 10

Answer

An EPDS score of ≥10 is the most widely recommended threshold for indicating possible postpartum depression and the need for further clinical evaluation.

Question 2

A woman presents at her 28-week obstetric visit reporting recurrent nightmares, avoidance of pregnancy-related medical appointments, and hypervigilance since a previous pregnancy loss. The most appropriate provisional diagnosis is:

Accepted Answer

PTSD related to prior pregnancy loss

Answer

Re-experiencing (nightmares), avoidance (skipping appointments), and hyperarousal following a traumatic event (pregnancy loss) are hallmark PTSD criteria.

Question 3

Which of the following is a recognized risk factor specifically associated with increased likelihood of developing perinatal depression?

Accepted Answer

History of depression or anxiety prior to pregnancy

Answer

A personal history of depression or anxiety is one of the strongest and most consistently identified risk factors for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.

Question 4

According to the DSM-5, the 'with peripartum onset' specifier for major depressive disorder applies when the episode begins:

Accepted Answer

During pregnancy or within 4 weeks after delivery

Answer

DSM-5 uses 'with peripartum onset' when a major depressive episode begins during pregnancy or within the first four weeks postpartum.

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the relationship between postpartum depression (PPD) and paternal mental health?

Accepted Answer

Paternal PPD affects approximately 10% of fathers and is correlated with maternal PPD

Answer

Approximately 10% of fathers experience postpartum depression, and rates increase significantly when the mother also has PPD, suggesting a shared relational vulnerability.

(PMH-C) Perinatal Mental Health Certification Practice Test

(PMH-C) Perinatal Mental Health Certification Practice Test

PMH-C Perinatal Mental Health Disorders & Assessment 4