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A recent study revealed that 1 in 7 women may experience postpartum depression in the first year after giving birth. What are the symptoms and what can you do about it?

There is a normal period of adjustment for one to two weeks after the baby is born where a mother may experience mood swings and weepiness. This is a normal response to all the hormonal changes occurring in your body and is typically referred to as the Baby Blues. These feelings should resolve or subside by the time the baby is 2-3 weeks old. You may be overly tired, have trouble sleeping, feel anxious, have trouble thinking clearly or just not feel like yourself. 

If these symptoms continue after 3 weeks then it might be turning into postpartum depression or postpartum anxiety. Symptoms can include insomnia, loss of appetite, intense irritability, anxiety, hopelessness, difficulty bonding with your baby, panic attacks, and more. If you are experiencing any of these you should contact your midwife or physician who cared for you during your pregnancy.

Treatments may include counseling, relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing, exercise, and any other activities that reduce stress. Medications such as anti-depressants may also be needed. If left untreated, postpartum depression can last several months or more. 

New fathers or partners can experience postpartum depression too. They may feel sad, tired, overwhelmed, anxious, or any of the other symptoms mothers can experience. They may need treatment too.

The good news is, there are many things that can help you improve how you feel during the postpartum period. Please don’t hesitate to reach out for help for yourself or your partner if you are experiencing any of these symptoms. www.postpartum.net is a wonderful resource.