15 to 20% of women experience postpartum mood disorders (PPMDs). The most common being Postpartum Depression (PPD) and Postpartum Anxiety (PPA). While less common, new moms can also suffer from Postpartum Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (PPOCD).
Unlike the “baby blues” (i.e., increased emotionality) which usually goes away within two weeks of delivery, PPMDs can appear any time during pregnancy and the first 12 months after childbirth. Onset can also be linked to changes in breastfeeding.
The postpartum period is a time of immense physical, hormonal, and psychological changes for new mothers. While many women blame themselves for their struggles, the reality is that all of these factors contribute to the development of PPMDs. It is not something a mother can control.
PPMDs are classified as a medical condition and should be treated as such. Medical care combined with counseling provide the best outcomes for suffering moms.
Women that receive no treatment for PPMDs can suffer unnecessarily for months or even years. Those who seek help, on the other hand, often begin to recover within a few weeks.
Symptoms of postpartum depression include persistent sadness, worthlessness, and loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities.
Symptoms of postpartum anxiety include excessive worry, restlessness, and intrusive thoughts.
Symptoms of postpartum obsessive compulsive disorder include obsessions (intrusive thoughts, images, and physical sensations that cause severe anxiety) and compulsions (responses to mitigate anxiety).
Important: Postpartum Psychosis occurs in approximately 1 to 2 out of every 1,000 deliveries. The onset is usually sudden, within the first 2 weeks postpartum, but can appear any time in the first year. Symptoms can include a break with reality (delusions, hallucinations, paranoia and suspiciousness) as well as depression, changes in sleep, and irritability. Anyone experiencing these symptoms needs immediate medical attention.
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