Relationship distress and depression in postpartum women: literature review and introduction of a conjoint interpersonal psychotherapy intervention

Abstract

Researchers and clinicians agree that the quality of a woman's relationship with her partner consistently affects the severity, course, and risk of relapse of postpartum depression (PPD). However, there have been relatively few attempts to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of couple psychotherapy for women simultaneously experiencing PPD and relationship distress. This article introduces a newly developed interpersonal psychotherapy conjoint approach to treating PPD in the context of relationship distress. A case study illustrating the successful application of this approach is presented.