ICOMBO study into postnatal depression (post partum mood disorder) in parents of multiples

Postnatal Depression (PND), or Post Partum Mood Disorder (PPMD) is:

• A type of depression that can occur after childbirth
• Can range from “baby blues” to clinical depression or even to suicide/ homicide/psychosis
• Often goes unrecognized or can be dismissed by family, friends, and health professionals
• Treated with counseling and/or medication
• Some PPMD sufferers require hospitalisation
• Risk factors include: personal or family history of depression and PPMD with a previous pregnancy

ICOMBO completed a study in 2014, in 18 countries to investigate the incidence of PND in parents of multiples.  Part of the study also involved trying to ascertain some trigger factors.  From our study it is clear that parents of multiples are at significant risk of suffering PND at some point.  More research is required in this important area.

For further information, contact chair@icombo.org