Nonpharmacologic Intervention and Prevention Strategies for Depression During Pregnancy and the Postpartum

Perinatal depression is a serious and disabling disorder that has enduring consequences for both women and their children. Although efficacious pharmacologic strategies are available, many perinatal women are reluctant to continue or start antidepressant medications because of the concern about impact on the fetus or, later, the nursing infant. Weighing the costs and benefits of pharmacologic strategies often requires complex-decision making on the part of obstetric providers and patients. Nonpharmacologic intervention and prevention strategies offer the potential of beneficial outcomes without substantial risk profiles. This paper reviews the evidence base for nonpharmacologic intervention and prevention strategies for depression during pregnancy and the postpartum. The evidence base suggests that efficacious nonpharmacologic options are available for women during pregnancy and postpartum; however, important research questions remain.