TEALE FENNING

Xerxes I

NICE just published guidelines on Antenatal and postnatal mental health. It also has a seperate document for patients.

http://guidance.nice.org.uk/CG45/guidance/pdf/English/download.dspx

A couple of interesting points:

Questions to ask for deppression on the first postnatal visit (although usually by MW). We all know this but it is sometimes difficult to find the right way of putting it.

• During the past month, have you often been bothered by feeling down, depressed or hopeless?
• During the past month, have you often been bothered by having little interest or pleasure in doing things?
Depending on answers you may ask:
• Is this something you feel you need or want help with?

this is new to me:

" In case of stillbirth, it is now considered unhelpful for women to see and hold their babies, unless they particularly wish to do so."

Although I have always felt this way. Any comments?

Nick Raine-Fenning · Posted: Thu Mar 15, 2007 8:02 pm Post subject:

Yes - I would still offer this. The worst thing you could do is to not give the couple the chance and for them to regret this.

These are very important guidelines. This has always been a big issue but is very hot
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