Postpartum Depression
Depression During Pregnancy and after Childbirth
For most women, having a baby is a very exciting, joyous, and often anxious time. But for women with peripartum, (formerly postpartum depression), depression it can become very distressing and difficult. Peripartum depression refers to depression occurring during pregnancy or after childbirth. The use of the term peripartum recognizes that depression associated with having a baby often begins during pregnancy.
Peripartum depression is a serious, but treatable medical illness involving feelings of extreme sadness, indifference and/or anxiety, as well as changes in energy, sleep, and appetite. It carries risks for the mother and child.
Pregnancy and the period after delivery can be a particularly vulnerable time for women. Mothers often experience immense biological, emotional, financial, and social changes during this time. Some women can be at an increased risk for developing mental health problems, particularly depression and anxiety.
Perinatal Depression Symptoms
- Low mood, sadness, tearfulness
- Loss of interest in experiences you previously enjoyed
- Agitation, irritability, anxiety
- Lack of energy
- Difficulty concentrating
- Lack of appetite
- Sleep disturbance
- Feelings of guilt, shame, hopelessness
- Thoughts of harming your baby or yourself
Perinatal Anxiety Symptoms
- Constant worry
- Feeling that something bad is going to happen
- Feeling like you can’t turn your brain off
- Disturbances of sleep
- Lack of appetite
- Dizziness, heart palpitations, nausea
You Don't Have to Struggle With Postpartum Depression Anymore.
Part of your care plan will involve follow-up visits with us where we can access your progress and help you make adjustments as needed in order to continue positive progress. Don’t hesitate to call us today.