GPs' and health visitors' views on the diagnosis and management of postnatal depression: a qualitative study

Abstract

Background: In the UK, 8-15% of women suffer from postnatal depression, with long-term consequences for maternal mood and child development. Previous literature suggests that health visitors struggle with their conflicting roles with respect to mother and infant. Current policy is redirecting the emphasis and organisation of health visitor work, but guidelines state that health visitors and GPs should continue to have a major role in the detection and management of postnatal depression.

Aim: To explore the views of GPs and health visitors on the diagnosis and management of postnatal depression.

Design of study: A qualitative study nested within a multicentre randomised controlled trial.

Setting: Nine primary care trusts in Bristol, Manchester, and London.

Method: In-depth interviews with GPs and health visitors from primary care trusts participating in a randomised controlled trial of antidepressants versus health visitor-delivered non-directive counselling. Interviews were audiotaped and fully transcribed. Thematic analysis with an iterative approach was used to develop conceptual categories from the transcripts.

Results: Nineteen GPs and 14 health visitors were interviewed. GPs and health visitors described their work in making and negotiating the diagnosis of postnatal depression, the value of a long-term relationship with the woman, and how labelling affects management of women with postnatal depression. Responders described how they viewed others' roles in the management of postnatal depression, and how national policy and local organisational changes had an impact on patient care, so that no one health professional was assuming overall responsibility for the care of women with postnatal depression.

Conclusion: Ongoing organisational changes within primary care, such as the implementation of corporate working by health visitors, affect care provided to women after birth, which in turn has an impact on the diagnosis and management of postnatal depression.