Perinatal (pregnancy and postpartum) depression can be challenging, especially if you don’t know what to do next. Many women don’t want to tell people because of the stigma involved, as well as fear that their baby will be taken from them. There is help, however, and no reason to hide what you’re experiencing from your provider. Being honest will give them the information they need to help you feel better and enjoy motherhood more.
What is perinatal depression?
Perinatal depression is a mood disorder that occurs during pregnancy and after childbirth, according to the National Institute of Health. It can appear several months after childbirth, even if you didn’t experience it right after delivery. Its symptoms range from mild to severe. You should seek help regardless of the severity of the symptoms.
Perinatal depression, when it occurs after childbirth, is more than just the “baby blues,” says the American Psychiatric Association. 85% of new mothers experience the baby blues right after delivery. The baby blues are short-term feelings of moodiness, worry, unhappiness, and exhaustion that go away after about two weeks and don’t affect daily life.
What are the symptoms of perinatal depression?
Symptoms include:
- Sadness or a depressed mood
- Loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed
- Changes in appetite
- Insomnia or sleeping too much
- Increase in purposeless activity (like pacing)
- Feeling worthless or guilty
- Difficulty concentrating, thinking, or making decisions
- Thoughts of suicide or death
- Crying without reason
- Apathy or extreme anxiety around the baby
- Feelings of being a bad mother
- Fear of harming oneself or the baby
- Physical aches or pains that don’t have a clear cause
If you are experiencing these symptoms, you should seek treatment from your healthcare provider.
If you don’t have a healthcare provider, you can call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262) to receive free, confidential, 24/7 mental health support during and after pregnancy. You can talk to English or Spanish-speaking counselors.
What are the treatments for perinatal depression?
Treatments for perinatal depression include medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, social support, or some combination. Antidepressant medications carry a small risk of birth defects. However, many medications are compatible with breastfeeding. Generally, women with mild symptoms will start treatment with therapy, while women with medium to severe symptoms are typically treated with medication as well.
Why should I seek treatment for perinatal depression?
Untreated perinatal depression affects your daily quality of life, but can also cause your baby to be born prematurely. Perinatal depression can affect bonding with your baby, as well as your baby’s feeding and sleeping. Even if you find it difficult to seek help for yourself, remember it will benefit you and your baby in the long run.
Perinatal depression is challenging, but you’re not alone. It’s a common condition that affects many women during and after pregnancy. Your provider will help you work toward recovery and direct you toward helpful resources. If you don’t have anyone in your life to turn to, our staff of registered nurses and trained peer advocates at The Pregnancy Network is here to help. Make an appointment for free, confidential help in finding mental health resources.