What is Postpartum Depression?

Postpartum  depression can start during pregnancy or during the first year after  delivery. Not everyone will experience the same symptoms or all of them  listed below...   Women may experience:   

• Lack of interest in the baby 
• Sadness and crying 
• Feelings of irritability and anger 
• Disturbances in sleep and appetite 
• Lack of interest and joy in things you normally found pleasurable 
• Feelings of shame, guilt and hopelessness 
• Possible thoughts of harming yourself or the baby or both 

Postpartum depression can feel very debilitating...Risk factors to be aware of that can increase your chances of postpartum depression are:   

• Any family or personal history of postpartum depression, depression, or anxiety 
• Marital stressors 
• Financial stressors 
• Difficulties during pregnancy, birth or breastfeeding 
• Difficulties with PMS or Premenstral Dysphoric Disorder 
• Inadequate support around taking care of the baby 
• Mom with Thyroid issues 
• Mom with any type of  Diabetes gestational, 1, or 2 
• Major life transition such as loss, job loss or moving etc... 
• Infant in NICU 
• Mom who went through infertility treatments 
• Mom of multiples 

It  is important to be aware of any risk factors that you may put you at  higher likelihood of postpartum depression. If you find that you have  any on this list it would be helpful to be talking to your Obstetrician  or get connected to a therapist. They will be able to help determine  along with you what type of supports would best.