Speakers - 2026

Title: Post Partum Depression Screening in Mothers of Infants with Congenital Heart Defects

Abstract

Background: Mothers of infants with complex congenital heart defects (CHD) experience significant psychological stress related to prolonged hospitalization and uncertainty regarding their child’s outcome. This can lead to impaired emotional regulation, cognitive issues, psychosocial issues, and behavioral problems for the child. While the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends postpartum depression (PPD) screening at one week, two months, four months, and 6 months well-child visits, mothers of hospitalized infants often lack access to these screenings until after discharge. Identifying PPD and barriers to mental-health resource utilization in this population may improve maternal and infant outcomes.

Purpose: This study aims to (1) identify the incidence of perceived postpartum depression in caregivers of infants diagnosed with complex CHD and (2) identify barriers that may prevent caregivers from utilizing available mental-health resources and referrals.

Methods: The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) was administered during hospitalization to mothers of infants with CHD who have never been discharged home. The EPDS is a validated 10-item questionnaire used to assess depressive symptoms in the postpartum period, with a score of ≥10 indicating depressive symptomology warranting referral. Any positive answer to question 10, regarding self-harm also warranted immediate referral to embedded psychologist. A demographic survey was administered to identify psychosocial factors —including low education, single parenthood, unemployment, and race/ethnicity—that may limit access to resources. This follow-up survey also assessed which, if any, resources were used, if they plan to continue to use resources after discharge, and if there were any other barriers to accessing resources. Data was collected via Redcap on a secure, dedicated iPad. This approach was selected to minimize interruptions during data entry, and to allow for immediate calculation and review of scores to facilitate timely referrals when needed.

Results: Preliminary findings indicate that caregivers of infants with complex congenital heart disease (CHD) exhibit high rates of postpartum depression (PPD).