PMH-C Postpartum Depression 4

Question 1

A mother reports she began feeling depressed during her third trimester and the symptoms continue at 8 weeks postpartum. How should this presentation be classified?

Accepted Answer

Postpartum depression with peripartum onset specifier

Answer

Depression beginning in the prenatal period and continuing postpartum is classified as MDD with peripartum onset specifier, as DSM-5 includes pregnancy-onset presentations.

Question 2

Which sleep intervention is MOST supported by evidence for improving mood in postpartum women with depression?

Accepted Answer

Coordinated sleep support allowing 4-hour uninterrupted sleep stretches

Answer

Coordinated partner or support person involvement to allow the mother at least one 4-hour uninterrupted sleep stretch significantly improves mood and is evidence-supported.

Question 3

A postpartum client with PPD also has a history of bipolar II disorder. Which treatment consideration is MOST critical?

Accepted Answer

Use antidepressants only with a mood stabilizer to reduce risk of mood switch

Answer

In patients with bipolar disorder, SSRIs used without mood stabilizers carry risk of precipitating hypomanic or manic episodes, so mood stabilizer co-prescription is essential.

Question 4

Which of the following is a core component of Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) as applied to postpartum depression?

Accepted Answer

Addressing role transitions related to new parenthood

Answer

IPT for PPD specifically targets the role transition to parenthood as a central therapeutic focus, helping mothers navigate identity and relational changes.

Question 5

A postpartum patient declines antidepressants but is willing to try non-pharmacological interventions. Which of the following has the STRONGEST evidence as a non-pharmacological treatment for PPD?

Accepted Answer

Psychotherapy, particularly CBT or IPT

Answer

Structured psychotherapy, especially CBT and IPT, has the strongest non-pharmacological evidence base for treating PPD and is recommended as first-line in those declining medication.

(PMH-C) Perinatal Mental Health Certification Practice Test

(PMH-C) Perinatal Mental Health Certification Practice Test

PMH-C Postpartum Depression 4