From the moment a child is born, a mother’s life is forever changed. The most significant changes occur in priorities and demands on time, and it is common for new moms to feel overwhelmed.

Many women aren’t prepared for the range of emotions they experience after childbirth. In fact, bouts of crying and irritability, along with lapses in concentration and exhaustion – often referred to as the “baby blues” – are quite common, affecting 80 percent of new mothers. But for many women, these feelings and others can grow increasingly intense, developing into something they may not have planned for – postpartum depression (PPD).

A unique early intervention program at Winthrop-University Hospital, conceptualized by nurses in the Hospital’s Maternal Child Health Department and instituted with the support of Winthrop’s Home Health Agency (HHA), a nationally recognized leader in Home Care and distinguished member of the Home Care Elite, is committed to supporting mothers who are at risk for PPD – even after they leave the hospital – through early identification, monitoring and vital follow-up support.

“Most women do not manifest symptoms of postpartum depression until a few weeks after they leave the hospital,” said Eileen Magri, RN, MSN, Director of Nursing, Maternal Child Health at Winthrop. “That’s why we felt it was important to develop a program that follows these mothers and extends Winthrop’s caring touch beyond the in-hospital experience.”

“The program creates a bridge between the Hospital and the home, ensuring that women at risk for postpartum depression have access to a unique telephone support program and home care services to help ensure their well-being and the wellbeing of their child,” said Anne Calvo, RN, BSN, MPS, Administrator, Winthrop-University Hospital Home Health Agency. “In addition, the program provides a bridge between the home and additional professional help for moms who may require it.”