Postpartum Depression (PPD)

Post-Partum Depression

 

 

After the birth of a baby, new moms may feel like they are on a roller coaster ride that never ends. It is common to feel a full range of emotions from excitement, to fear, to sadness. Bringing a baby home can be quite an adjustment for everyone, knowing what to expect can help.

During pregnancy, a woman’s body goes through dramatic changes which can also affect her moods and emotions. Naturally, at the end of the pregnancy, her body will again go through major changes and the impact on hormones can trigger what medical professionals commonly refer to as “the postpartum baby blues”. Each woman’s experience will be unique, but it is common that she will notice extreme mood swings, trouble sleeping, fear, anxiety, and she may also experience sadness and tears that come more freely and easily than normal. These baby blues can begin two to three days after she gives birth and last up to two weeks.

 

If these symptoms last longer than two weeks, or you are concerned that you may be depressed or have overwhelming feelings that prevent you from caring for yourself and your baby, it is important to reach out for help right away. Contact your doctor about your concerns. You will get the help and treatment that you need so that you can get back to bonding with and enjoying your baby.

 

Here is a list of symptoms that may be signs of Postpartum Depression. If you experience these

symptoms, contact your doctor right away.

  • Depressed mood or extreme mood swings
  • Excessive crying
  • Difficulty bonding with your baby
  • Withdrawing from family and friends
  • Loss of appetite or eating much more than usual
  • Inability to sleep or sleeping too much
  • Lack of energy, feeling overwhelmed
  • Loss of interest in your favorite activities
  • Intense irritability and anger
  • Fear that you& are not a good mother
  • Feelings of worthlessness, shame, guilt, or inadequacy
  • Concerns about your ability to think clearly, concentrate, or make decisions
  • Severe anxiety and panic attacks
  • Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
  • Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

If you are having suicidal thoughts:

If at any point you have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, immediately seek help from your

partner, family, or friends to take care of your baby, and call 911 or your local emergency assistance

number to get help.

If you are having thoughts about suicide:

Call your clinic.