The Risks & Realities of Post-Partum Depression

Becoming a parent is a life-changing experience. Preparing yourself for new routines and responsibilities, there are potential aspects of parenthood you cannot get ready for. More specifically, post-partum depression (PPD).

Different than the more common baby blues experienced by 80% of birthing mothers, PPD is a specific type of depression experienced by up to 20% of birthing mothers in U.S. Interestingly, PPD can also be experienced by new, non-birthing parents including surrogates and adoptive parents.

In most cases, the feelings of anxiety, depression, or even anger associated with baby blues go away on their own in a few days or weeks. However, in some cases, PPD can last for a year—or longer—after a child is born.

Symptoms of PPD vary dramatically from parent to parent and may even develop during pregnancy. All symptoms have the potential to interfere with your ability to care for your baby and deal with other daily responsibilities.   

Common symptoms of PPD include:

• Feelings of shame, worthlessness, hopelessness, or guilt
• Severe mood swings
• Persistent sense of worry or feeling on edge
• Panic attacks
• Loss of interest in hobbies or things you once enjoyed
• Loss of appetite or overeating
• Extreme fatigue and lack of motivation
• Sleep issue ranging from insomnia to wanting to sleep all the time
• Excessive crying
• Trouble focusing
• Thoughts of harming yourself or suicide  
• Difficulty bonding with your baby or feeling anxious around your baby
• Thoughts of hurting your baby or feeling like you don't want your baby

While it’s impossible to predict who will develop PPD, there are certain factors that may increase your risk:

• A personal or family history of depression or premenstrual dysphoric disorder 
• Having a premature baby
• Having a difficult delivery
• Having limited family or friend support
• Being a single parent
• Being younger than age 20 at the time of delivery
• Relationship conflicts
• Having a colicky baby or one with special needs  

Experiencing symptoms of PPD is nothing to be embarrassed or ashamed about. Up to 1 in 5 birthing mothers are dealing with the same emotions and challenges.

That said, if you find your symptoms:

• are not improving after two weeks
• are getting worse
• are making it hard for you to care for your baby or yourself
• include thoughts of harming yourself or your baby

you should contact your primary care provider or your obstetrician or gynecologist immediately and share what you are feeling. It is important to be completely honest about the challenges and emotions you are experiencing. This will help your provider assess what, if any, treatment is needed.  

Michael Silverberg, DO, is an OB/GYN at Southwestern Vermont Medical Center.