Postpartum Depression

How Common Is Postpartum Depression? By The Numbers 

About 70-80% of women report the “baby blues,” meaning they may feel sad, anxious, and experience mood swings a few days after their babies are born. This is normal – and is not necessarily an indicator of postpartum depression.

Only about 10-20% of women develop serious postpartum depression, which has much more serious effects on your mental health, and should be treated by a professional.

The Top Signs Of Postpartum Depression

How can you tell if you have postpartum depression? Here’s what symptoms you should keep an eye out for:

• Losing interest in things you use to enjoy
• Major changes in eating habits
• Feelings of anxiety or panic attacks
• “Racing” thoughts that you can’t control
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Excessive anger, irritability or agitation
• Sadness and uncontrollable crying
• Difficulty sleeping, or excessive sleeping
• Fear of not being a good mother, or being alone with your baby
• Disinterest in family, friends, or even your child

If you notice one or more of these signs and symptoms, it’s likely that you have postpartum depression.

When To Get Help From A Professional  

In some cases, professional help may not be necessary, especially if you can share your feelings with a partner, join a support group for moms, discuss your issues with your doctor, and have support from your family members.

However, some cases of postpartum depression should be treated by qualified mental health professionals. If your condition is so severe that it is interfering with your day-to-day life for days or weeks at a time, or you are having thoughts about harming yourself, your child, or a family member, you need to get help right away.

If you’re not sure whether or not you need professional help, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Contact qualified professionals like the team at Complete Healthcare for Women to get the care you need for your postpartum depression.

Know What To Expect, And How To Recognize Postpartum Depression 

Postpartum depression is common, and it can have a significant negative effect on your day-to-day life. Know how to recognize it – and know when to get help from a professional at Complete Healthcare for Women to get through this difficult period of your life.

Complete Healthcare for Women - Obstetrics and Gynecology

509-392-6700

Richard Lorenzo, D.O.

Kortney Jones ARNP

Author

Kortney Jones, ARNP Kortney Jones is board certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. She provides ob-gyn services including birth control, pregnancy and prenatal care, and infertility as well as gynecological services such as women’s health and wellness, abnormal uterine bleeding, endometriosis, pellet hormone therapy, and menopause.