What new moms or pregnant women should know about postpartum depression

Overview: One in 8 women suffer from postpartum depression. Learn the symptoms, risk factors and importance of seeking help. Recognizing and treating postpartum depression early can help new moms maintain their mental health and encourage healthy bonding with their babies. 

Pregnancy and the birth of a baby is a joyous occasion, celebrated by family and friends. However, the time right after giving birth can be challenging for moms and puts strain on their mental health. While many women experience the “baby blues,” postpartum depression is more intense and lasts longer. It’s often not talked about, leading too many women to suffer in silence.

Postpartum depression occurs in about 1 in 8 women. It typically lasts at least a year for 30-50% of those diagnosed.  It’s extremely important to diagnose and treat early during the postpartum period. If you think you might be experiencing postpartum depression symptoms, reach out to your provider -- you’re not alone.

What is postpartum depression?

Postpartum (or after birth) depression is generally defined as depression in the first 12 months after birth.

Many women experience the “baby blues” in the first two to three weeks after birth, with mild symptoms like insomnia, fatigue, tearfulness, irritability, mood swings, anxiety and appetite changes. These usually resolve within two to three weeks postpartum.

Postpartum depression is diagnosed if these symptoms persist or intensify.  Other signs of postpartum depression include:

• Depressed mood most of the day.
• Diminished interest or pleasure in most activities.
• Fatigue or loss of energy.
• Agitation or extreme irritability.
• Inability to concentrate.
• Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt.

What causes postpartum depression?

There’s not one definitive cause for postpartum depression, and some women may be more likely to experience it than others. Women who have a history of depression, postpartum depression with previous pregnancies or a family history of depression tend to have a higher risk of postpartum depression.

How do you test for postpartum depression?

Women receive depression screenings from their health care provider multiple times throughout their pregnancy and postpartum care, including before delivery, before leaving the hospital and at their two-week and six-week postpartum visits.  These screenings often involve a questionnaire on mood and thoughts.  Your provider will recommend treatment if signs of depression are identified.

How is postpartum depression treated?

Postpartum depression is a treatable condition when recognized and with appropriate intervention. Talk therapy is a common approach. Talking with a therapist can help you manage your emotions and better deal with personal life and relationships. Antidepressant medications can also be prescribed for postpartum depression.

These at-home self-care tools also can help postpartum depression:

• Plan for postpartum during the last trimester.
• Accept help with chores during the first two to three weeks postpartum.
• Don't schedule or over schedule yourself for the first few weeks of postpartum.
• Get mild exercise like walking.
• Eat protein, fruits and vegetables.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Don't feel guilty about practicing self-care. Your baby is better when you're happy and healthy.

Postpartum depression vs. postpartum psychosis

Postpartum psychosis is a less common, more severe mental health condition that can develop after childbirth. In many cases, postpartum psychosis occurs in the days immediately following your baby’s delivery. Women have a higher risk if they have bipolar disorder type I or schizoaffective disorder, a previous postpartum psychosis or a history of postpartum psychosis in a close relative. Only about 1 in 1,000 women who have no history of mental health disorders and no family history of mental health develops postpartum psychosis.

Symptoms of postpartum psychosis can include:

• Hallucinations.
• Delusions.
• Disorganized thinking.
• Disorganized speech.
• Paranoia.
• Incoherent or disorganized behavior.
• Social withdrawal.
• Emotional disturbances.
• Impaired judgment and decision-making.

If you’re struggling with postpartum psychosis, seek help from your health care provider immediately.

When to seek help

It’s important to be honest and open with your doctor if you’re struggling with postpartum depression symptoms – especially if they begin to worsen or make it hard to care for your baby. Recognizing signs early can help you manage symptoms and reduce the impact on your newborn baby’s health. If left untreated, postpartum depression can affect breastfeeding and bonding with your baby. This leads to less interaction, holding, physical touch, eye contact, smiles and talking to the baby, which are all important behavioral needs for a newborn.

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength. With the right support, you can navigate postpartum depression and embrace the joys of motherhood.

Reach out to your MercyOne provider 

This blog was medically reviewed by a MercyOne provider.