RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Prevalence of Postpartum Depression Among Patients of the CHUM GARE Clinic

This study aims to understand how many new mothers attending a high-risk pregnancy clinic might be experiencing postnatal depression (PPD). Even though PPD is common, it's often missed. The study will test a new way to help doctors spot PPD earlier using a simple questionnaire called the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and a clear guide for what to do next. Researchers want to see if this new system makes it easier for mums to get the help they need. They will also look at different things, like age and health history, to see if they are linked to higher EPDS scores. This research is important for improving support for new mothers after birth.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM)

Enrolment target

100

Start

20 Oct 2025

Estimated completion

01 Jan 2027

Post-partum Depression Maternal Health Mental Health Issue

What is this study about?

This study is all about understanding and improving how we find and support new mothers who might be struggling with sadness and low mood after having a baby, often called postnatal depression (PPD). PPD is quite common, but sometimes it goes unnoticed in the busy period after childbirth. If left untreated, it can affect both the mother's health and the baby's early development.

The main goal of this study is to work out how many mums attending a particular high-risk pregnancy clinic might have PPD. Researchers also want to see if a new, clear way of checking for PPD works well. This new way involves using a simple questionnaire, the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), which helps identify symptoms of PPD. If a mum scores above a certain level, there's a step-by-step guide for doctors to follow to make sure she gets the right support.

By doing this, the study hopes to make it easier for healthcare professionals to spot PPD sooner and get mums the help they need. They will also be looking at different factors, like a mum's age, education, and health background, to see if any of these are connected to a higher chance of experiencing PPD. This information could help doctors understand who might need extra support in the future.

Key takeaways

This study aims to find out how common postnatal depression is.
It tests a new way to help doctors spot PPD early in new mothers.
Participation involves filling in a questionnaire and two phone calls.
The goal is to help mums get the right support if they need it.
Your medical care will not be affected if you choose not to take part.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for women who are at least 18 years old and have given birth sometime in the last four weeks up to six months ago. You would need to be attending your routine postnatal check-up at the high-risk pregnancy clinic where the study is taking place.

It's important that you can understand either French or English well enough to complete a questionnaire and that you're happy to take part.

You wouldn't be able to join the study if you find it difficult to understand or fill out the questionnaire, or if you simply prefer not to take part.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Did you give birth between 4 weeks and 6 months ago?
Are you attending your postnatal visit at the CHUM high-risk pregnancy clinic?
Can you understand and complete a questionnaire in English or French?
Are you happy to take part in the study?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you choose to take part in this study, it would happen during your regular postnatal visit at the clinic. You would be asked to complete a questionnaire called the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). If your score suggests you might be experiencing symptoms of postnatal depression, the clinic staff would follow a guide to help you get the right care. You would also receive two phone calls, one two weeks and one six weeks after your clinic visit, to check if you've been able to get the recommended support and how long it took. There are no medications involved in this study.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study might help identify if you are experiencing postnatal depression and connect you with appropriate support sooner. This could be beneficial for your well-being and your baby's development. There are no known physical risks. However, discussing your feelings can sometimes be emotionally challenging. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and this will not affect your medical care.

Locations (1)

Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal
Verified postcode
Montreal, Canada· Recruiting

Common questions

What is postnatal depression?

Postnatal depression (PPD) is a type of depression that some women experience after having a baby. It can make you feel sad, anxious, tired, and lose interest in things you usually enjoy.

What is the EPDS questionnaire?

The EPDS (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale) is a simple, short questionnaire used to help identify if someone might be experiencing symptoms of postnatal depression.

Will I get special treatment in this study?

The study aims to improve identification and referral for PPD within routine care, so if needed, you would be guided to appropriate support services as part of this process.

Do I have to do anything else besides answer questions?

No, your participation mainly involves completing the questionnaire during your clinic visit and then two follow-up phone calls to check on your progress with any recommended support.

Will my information be kept private?

Yes, all information you share during the study will be kept confidential and used only for research purposes.

How to find out more

Anne Lavoie, MD

anne.lavoie.med@ssss.gouv.qc.ca 514-890-8000 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.