US Preventive Services Task Force Recommends Counseling to Prevent Perinatal Depression

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has issued a new draft recommendation emphasizing the importance of counseling for women at increased risk of perinatal depression (PND). The recommendation is based on an extensive review of evidence, including 75 clinical trials involving over 30,000 participants, primarily consisting of women identified as being at higher risk for PND.

Research indicates that behavioral counseling—such as those based on cognitive behavioral therapy or interpersonal therapy—can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing depression during pregnancy and after childbirth. Specifically, 27 trials showed a 17% decrease in depression risk following counseling interventions. Additionally, educational programs aimed at pregnant and postpartum women demonstrated a 21% reduction in depression incidence, although they did not significantly alter depression symptom severity.

These findings support the USPSTF’s updated stance that healthcare providers should offer or refer women at increased risk for PND to suitable counseling services during pregnancy and in the postpartum period. This demonstrable benefit highlights the vital role of mental health support in maternal care.

The draft recommendation and the supporting evidence review are open for public comment from April 22 through May 19, 2025. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit their feedback to shape the final guidelines.

This initiative underscores the growing recognition of mental health in maternal healthcare and aims to help reduce the burden of perinatal depression through targeted prevention strategies.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-04-task-perinatal-depression.html