Perinatal Depression / Postpartum Depression
Depression that occurs during pregnacy or within a year after delivery is known as perinatal depression. Researchers believe that depression is one of the most common complications during and after pregnancy.
During pregnancy, these factors may increase a woman’s chance of depression:
- History of depression or substance abuse
- Family history of mental illness
- Little support from family and friends
- Anxiety about the fetus
- Problems with previous pregnancy or birth
- Marital or financial problems
- Young age (of mother)
Depression after pregnancy is called postpartum depression or peripartum depression. Researchers believe that the fast change in hormone levels may lead to depression.
The baby blues can happen within a few days to a week after delivery. Symptoms that go away this rapidly are not severe and treatment isn't needed. Postpartum depression can happen anytime up to a year after delivery and the symptoms affect the mother's wellbeing and keep her from functioning well for a longer period to time. Postpartum depression does need to be treated.
Postpartum depression is treated with talk therapy or medication. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should talk to their doctor about the benefits and risks of anti-depressant medication. However, untreated depression can affect the health of the fetus and affect a mother's ability to parent. Researchers believe that postpartum depression can affect the baby by causing delays in language development, problems with emotional bonding to others, behavioral problems, lower activity levels, sleep problems, and distress.
Sources of support include the following:
Postpartum Support International
Phone: (805) 967-7636
Internet Address: http://www.postpartum.net
Postpartum Education for Parents
Phone: (805) 564-3888
Internet Address: http://www.sbpep.org
(Source: US Department of Health And Human Services, Depression During and Aftter Pregancy. Click the Link to the right to download the full report: Depression During and After Pregnancy )
For further information read:
An Introduction to Postpartum Depression
Understanding Postpartum Depression
Postpartum Depression
Postpartum Depression and the 'Baby Blues'
Recognizing Postpartum Depression
How to Find Help Through Psychotherapy
Postpartum Depression Action Plan
Tips on Health Parenting for Mothers with Depression
Depression After the Birth of A Child or Pregnancy Loss
Postpartum Depression Webinar
Depression Treatment Wichita KS >
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