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Postpartum Depression

 

Understanding Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression and anxiety are the No. 1 complications of having a baby. But don’t let these common, treatable conditions rob you of this special time in your family’s life.

What is postpartum depression?

Most mothers have heard about the “baby blues.” This common condition occurs in 50 to 80 percent of women within the first few days after delivery and usually lasts a few days to about two weeks. Postpartum depression and/or postpartum anxiety are more intense and long-lasting and can emerge at any time in the first year after birth. Postpartum depression describes a spectrum of mood disorders that occur in 15 to 20 percent of postpartum patients. Many of these mothers were depressed during pregnancy or had a history of depression or anxiety.

Causes

There is no single cause or reason a woman has postpartum depression/anxiety. Postpartum depression/anxiety results from a combination of biological, hormonal, environmental, and psychological factors.

Risk factors

You are at risk for postpartum depression if you:

  • Have been previously diagnosed with postpartum depression
  • Experiences depression or anxiety during pregnancy
  • Have a personal or family history of mood disorders or mental illness
  • Have a history of severe PMS
  • Experience social isolation
  • Have a poor support system
  • Have a history of abuse

Symptoms

The symptoms for postpartum depression are different for every woman but may include:

  • Anxiety
  • Feeling overwhelmed
  • Sadness
  • Crying
  • Changes in appetite
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Irritability
  • Anger
  • Mood swings
  • Hopelessness
  • Excessive worries or fears
  • Persistent negative thoughts about yourself or your baby
  • Nightmares or flashbacks of a traumatic birth
  • Racing thoughts
  • Guilt

Treatment

If your symptoms persist for more than two weeks, become more severe, or interfere with activities of daily living, call your doctor. There are programs available for the treatment of postpartum depression/anxiety, including medical care, support groups, and individual counseling. Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Chronic, untreated mood disorders can negatively affect every relationship and can even be life-threatening.

Remember, you are not alone. You are not to blame. Your experience is real, and help is available. The longer you wait for treatment, the harder it is to treat postpartum depression. If you don’t like how you are feeling, call your doctor. Tell someone.

 
 

Next Steps

 

Get More Information

Learn more about how we can help make your experience one for the memory book and to take a tour of the Women's Center.

Find a Provider

Get connected with one of our board-certified OB/GYN providers.

Women's Health Assessment

Answer a few questions to determine your level of risk for certain preventable health conditions.