Task force recommends counseling to prevent perinatal depression

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force today recommended that clinicians provide or refer pregnant and postpartum women who are at increased risk for perinatal depression to counseling interventions. The task force found that cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy were effective interventions to prevent perinatal depression in pregnant and postpartum women who are at increased risk, such as those with a history or symptoms of depression or certain socioeconomic risk factors. The panel assigned a "B" grade to the recommendation, meaning all copays and deductibles for the interventions would be waived under the Affordable Care Act. “Effective counseling interventions can help prevent perinatal depression before it develops,” said task force member Karina Davidson. “We can help prevent one of the most common and serious complications of having a baby.”