The MOTHERS Act (also referred to as Melanie Blocker-Stokes Postpartum Depression Research and Care Act) is up before the Senate. The bill has been passed by the House. The basic premise of the Act is provide for research on, and services for individuals with, postpartum depression and psychosis. You can read the bill here.
There are two sides talking about this bill. There are those who believe this is good thing because more research and care needs to be provided for women suffering from postpartum depression and psychosis. There are those that strongly oppose this bill because, in essence, it will be a green light for pharmaceutical companies to force doctors to hand out more antidepressants.
As a new mother to my second child, I can appreciate both sides. First, yes more research should be done on postpartum depression and psychosis. So much has been printed on what happens during the pregnancy, but sometimes a new mom gets nothing more than a 6-week hurried check up at her OB. Is that enough? Does that count as a screening for postpartum depression? What about months later?
Second, this speaks to those who oppose the bill, an antidepressant may not be the best answer for everyone and a patient should not be bullied or guilted into taking medicine. What are the alternatives? The goal of this bill is to not only provide services, but research. Research in postpartum depression and psychosis is needed.
The language of the bill does not specify that prescriptions drugs will be the first line of defense. If you want to make your voice heard in support of the bill please visit the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance.
For further reading and up to date postings please visit the Postpartum Progress Blog.
