Postpartum Depression Rates and Breastfeeding Outcomes Among Physicians [A280]. (May 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Eischen, Emily; Awomolo, Adeola; Crowe, Susan; Braden, Andrea L.; Lehman, Kristina; Louis-Jacques, Adetola
• Is Part Of: Obstetrics and gynecology. Volume 139(2022)Supplement 1
• Page Start: 81S
• Page End: 81S
• Publication Date: 2022-05
• Subjects: Obstetrics -- Periodicals; Gynecology -- Periodicals; 618
• DOI: 10.1097/01.AOG.0000825680.32694.d4
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0029-7844

Abstract

Abstract : INTRODUCTION: There are limited data on postpartum depression (PPD) rates in physicians. Physicians are vulnerable due to unique stressors such as strenuous work hours, limited maternity leave, and other work-related barriers. Our objectives were to assess the rates of PPD in physicians as well as the relationship between PPD and breastfeeding outcomes. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional survey of physicians with a singleton pregnancy during the most challenging time of their career. Survey questions were adapted from the CDC's Infant Feeding Practices Study and Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System, along with investigator-developed questions. Analyses were completed via STATA version 17. RESULTS: A total of 637 respondents met eligibility. Most were non-Hispanic White (77%). A majority surpassed national breastfeeding initiation (99%) and exclusive duration rates (72%), and most met personal breastfeeding goals (78%). There were associations between race ( P =.04), birth year ( P =.001), and medical specialty ( P =.02) and meeting breastfeeding goals. Twenty-five percent of participants experienced PPD. PPD rates were higher in White than non-White respondents (25% vs. 18%, P =.03). Asians had the lowest rates of PPD (15%), whereas Hispanics/Latinx physicians had the highest rate (31%). Most commonly selected reasons for PPD were sleep deprivation (80%), infant feeding (44%), lack of adequate maternity leave (41%), and lack of support at work (33%). There was an association between meeting breastfeeding goals and exhibiting PPD ( P =.003). CONCLUSION: Although the physicians in our study were highly successful at breastfeeding compared to the national rates, the postpartum depression rates were higher than the national rates.