Publication: Screening and Management of Perinatal Depression in Nepal: The Need for Urgent Action
Date
2026
Article Type
Short Communication
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
1999-6217
Volume Title
Pages
Pages: 183 - 188
Publisher
Nepal Health Research Council
Abstract
Abstract:
Perinatal depression is one of the most neglected public health concerns among reproductive-age women in resource-limited countries, such as Nepal. Currently, there is a lack of standardized protocols to screen and treat women for depression during pregnancy and the postpartum period in Nepal. Additionally, healthcare providers are often not adequately trained to identify and treat perinatal depression. This, coupled with the stigma related to mental health issues and a lack of community resources, can delay the identification and treatment of perinatal depression among women. The purpose of this paper is to highlight the need for routine screening and management guidelines for perinatal depression utilizing standardized and validated instruments and the establishment of community resources to enhance the outcomes of mothers and infants. Perinatal depression is the most common mental health issue among women of reproductive age. Collaborative efforts among healthcare workers and policymakers are essential to enhance maternal and child well-being. Fostering a comprehensive and culturally sensitive program Nepal can take a significant step toward reducing the burden of perinatal depression and improving the quality of life for women and their families. Routine screening for perinatal depression at different time points during pregnancy and postpartum for one year following childbirth as well as implementation of standardized screening and treatment guidelines to improve outcomes for women and their families.
Keywords: Infants; perinatal depression; postpartum; pregnancy; screening.
Description
Sangita Pudasainee-Kapri
Rutgers University, School of Nursing-Camden, USA
Mary Wunnenberg
Rutgers University, School of Nursing-Camden, USA
Tumla Shrestha
Tribhuvan University, Institute of Medicine, Maharajgunj Nursing Campus, Kathmandu, Nepal
Manisha Chapagai
Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Institute of Medicine, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal
Ram Hari Chapagain
Kanti Children Hospital, Kathmandu, Nepal
Jeevan Gyawali
Internal Medicine Department, Chirayu National Hospital and Medical Institute Kathmandu, Nepal
Keywords
Infants, perinatal depression, postpartum, pregnancy, screening
Identifier
https://doi.org/10.33314/jnhrc.v24i01.4725