[Management of severe antepartum depression: an update].

We update the epidemiology, diagnostic process, significant clinical features as well as main treatment and prevention issues in the field of antepartum depression, a widespread condition with significant relevance to primary care. During pregnancy, one forth women exhibit clinical symptoms of depression and such maternal depression may have disruptive effects on infants attachment process, marital relationships, family cohesion and work adjustment. Strenghts and limitations of psychotherapy, antidepressant medication and psychiatric hospitalisation are reviewed with a special accent on the specific ethical and scientific issues associated with the clinical dilemma of risks balance evaluation and medication treatment choice with these patients.