Treatment of postpartum depression in Brazil

a literature review

Abstract

Objective: to present the strategies recommended in Brazil for postpartum depression treatment and prevention. Methods: search in BVS, Scielo and PubMed databases, with the descriptors: “postpartum depression and treatment” and “puerperal depression and treatment”, where articles were selected in Portuguese, national, complete and published in the last five years. Results: the most recommended treatments for PPD in Brazil are antidepressants and psychotherapy, with an emphasis on psychoeducation and experience exchange groups. The importance of health professionals in early identifying psychopathology is highlighted. Conclusion: the association between psychotherapy and the use of antidepressants may be the best treatment strategy for PPD, in addition to the need for psychosocial support in public health services for the prevention and treatment of psychopathology.