Preventing post-natal depression.

The plethora of anxieties and discomforts which can accompany women throughout pregnancy, childbirth and the early stages of motherhood may not be sufficiently addressed in 'traditional' parent-craft teaching. Debbie Okpala describes the small study she organised which aimed first to identify and then ameliorate the problems which, if left unattended, can predispose to the development of post-natal depression. While wider conclusions cannot be drawn from her work, the success she achieved with this particular group of women stands as testimony to her perception and commitment.