Postpartum Depression
What is postpartum depression?
Pregnancy and the postpartum period are often seen as times of happiness and joy, but up to 1 in 5 women may instead experience symptoms of depression. This makes postpartum depression (PPD) is the most common complication of pregnancy. Women are not alone in experiencing postpartum mood changes and depression: men also experience depression during this period at a rate of about 1 in 10.
Symptoms can start anytime throughout pregnancy, within the first year after birth, or after a pregnancy loss. Postpartum depression can occur during any pregnancy, not just the first one. For some, this may be their experience with depression. Depression can cause intense feelings of sadness, hopelessness or misery. Sometimes, thoughts of not wanting to live or thoughts of suicide may occur. Other symptoms can include frequent crying spells (sometimes without a clear reason), feelings of guilt or worthlessness, difficulty bonding with the baby, intense mood swings, anger and rage, changes in sleep and appetite, isolation from friends and family, and trouble finding joy in happy moments.
Having postpartum depression does not mean that you are a bad mother, or that you are broken. It is a treatable and common condition, and you are not to blame.
Is postpartum depression the same as “baby blues”?
“Baby blues” is a common experience (up to 85%) for new moms, and is not considered a mental health disorder. Symptoms are generally mild, occur within the first few days postpartum, and resolve within two weeks. These experiences are caused by hormonal changes after birth. Usually, these symptoms do not interfere with being able to care for herself or the baby. Getting sufficient sleep, rest, and support from loved ones can help symptoms improve. If symptoms are severe, disruptive, or persist longer than 2 weeks, it is a good idea to seek evaluation for depression or other causes of symptoms and get appropriate treatment.
What causes postpartum depression?
A history of depression is the biggest risk factor for experiencing depression during pregnancy or the postpartum period. Hormone fluctuations (especially with estrogen and progesterone) during pregnancy, at birth, and over the following months can cause disruptions and contribute to depression. The decrease in sleep during this period can make it more challenging to handle stress and strong emotions, worsening depression.
Women with a history of a mood disorder, such as bipolar disorder or major depressive disorder, are at a higher risk of experiencing an episode of depression during pregnancy or postpartum. Without preventative treatment, this risk can be as high as 70% during this period. A history of other mental health disorders can also contribute. Other risk factors include: a family history of depression (especially during pregnancy or postpartum), infertility treatments, lack of social support or current relationship difficulties, and complications of pregnancy, birth and lactation (including those that lead to a NICU stay).
In short, while we understand a lot, much remains unknown, and there is no single cause.
If you are interested in being a part of ongoing research programs with Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical Center click here.
How is postpartum depression treated?
Treatment starts with education and prevention. It’s important to understand the risks and be aware of symptoms - by reading this article, you’re already taking the first step! If there is a known risk of depression or a history of past depressive episodes, it is helpful to work with a trained provider when considering becoming pregnant. This way, there can be a plan in place to monitor for emerging and warning symptoms, and to prevent an episode of depression from occurring during or after pregnancy.
Postpartum depression is treatable and will depend on the specific symptoms and their severity. In general, a combination of self-care (like a healthy diet, exercise, prioritizing adequate sleep), social support, psychotherapy or mental health counselling, and, in some cases, medication or other intensive treatments, may be a part of the approach to gain relief. Many medications are safe during pregnancy, the postpartum period, and while breastfeeding. There have been several new treatment options in recent years, specific to postpartum depression.
Working with a peripartum (peripartum mental health certified, or PMH-C) or reproductive trained psychiatrist will help you navigate the options, risks and benefits, and collaborate with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your goals, circumstances and experiences. Don’t face this alone; help is available, and you can get better.
"Postpartum depression doesn’t mean you’re weak; it means you’re human. Seeking help is the strongest thing you can do for yourself and your baby."
— Ashley Judd
What resources are there to learn more and get help?
If suicidal thoughts are present, medical treatment should be sought right away. The crisis lifeline is available 24/7 to call or text at 988 (or online at 988lifeline.org), or dial 911 or go to the nearest emergency room for immediate assistance.
All of our providers at Tranquility Psychiatry are passionate about women’s mental health and postpartum depression. To schedule a consult with one of our experts click here, or call us for a free 10 minute consultation at 561-203-5625.
To find a trained expert in perinatal mental health online: https://www.postpartum.net/get-help/provider-directory/. The postpartum support line can be reached via call or text at 1-800-944-4773. For a list of intensive treatment facilities follow this link.
To access free online support groups click here.
To learn more about postpartum depression:
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For professionals: click here, or call Postpartum Support International’s perinatal consult line at 1-800-499-4773.
"It's okay to struggle, and it's okay to talk about it. Postpartum depression is not a flaw; it's something that happens to a lot of women. We need to support each other through it."
— Gwyneth Paltrow
This information should not take the place of medical care and advice from your healthcare provider.
