About postpartum depression and pregnancy-related mood disorders

Depression during pregnancy.  Depression during pregnancy – known as antepartum or prenatal depression – affects up to 10% of pregnant women (although many researchers suspect this percentage is even higher).  Symptoms may include crying, sleep problems, appetite changes, loss in enjoyment of activities, anxiety, and obsessive thoughts and worries.  Women with these symptoms are at risk for postpartum depression.  It is important to speak with a healthcare provider to get treatment during pregnancy and prepare a postpartum plan.

The “Baby Blues.”  Approximately 60-80% of new mothers experience the baby blues.  This is a period of temporary moodiness, usually beginning 1-3 days after delivery.  Symptoms may include sadness, irritability, frustration, and mood swings. These symptoms come and go but usually disappear within two weeks as the new mother recovers from childbirth.

Postpartum depression.  Depression after delivery is the most common complication of childbirth.  Research shows that 20% of new mothers experience some postpartum depression; however, this number may be even greater since many cases go unreported.  Postpartum depression is a real medical illness and often requires medical treatment.  Symptoms of postpartum depression may be similar to the Baby Blues but more persistent, lasting throughout the day and longer than two weeks, and can impair a mother’s ability to function.  Postpartum depression can occur anytime during the first year after childbirth.  Symptoms may include frequent crying, sleep disturbances, feelings of anger/irritability, suicidal thoughts, and sometimes anxiety or panic attacks. The new mother may feel overwhelmed, inadequate, and unable to cope.  Although exhausted, she is usually unable to sleep.  She may worry obsessively about the baby's health, while feeling guilty about not bonding emotionally to her child.  Many women are ashamed of their feelings and often do not seek help.  Early recognition and proper treatment are important.

Postpartum Psychosis.  Postpartum psychosis is a severe but extremely rare (1 or 2 women in 1,000) disorder that can develop in the postpartum period. This illness is characterized by a loss of contact with reality for extended periods of time.  Symptoms usually occur during the first few weeks after delivery and include hallucinations, delusions, severe insomnia, rapid mood swings, and suicidal/infanticidal thoughts or actions. Postpartum psychosis is a very serious emergency and requires immediate medical help. If you or someone you know may be experiencing postpartum psychosis, call a doctor or go to the nearest hospital emergency room.  Women with severe postpartum psychosis may require hospitalization and medication.