Postpartum Depression
It is very common for women of all ages and backgrounds to suffer from depression while pregnant or after their baby is born. In fact, maternal depression affects 15-25% of women in Louisiana.
Postpartum depression, which occurs after pregnancy, not only affects the mother, but her baby and family as well. Perinatal Depression negatively affects the development of infants.
If you have had postpartum depression before, or have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, tell your doctor right away.
Women experience extreme hormonal changes during and after pregnancy. These hormonal changes often trigger difficulties in mood.
Baby Blues are not postpartum depression
The “Baby Blues” happen within the first few weeks after the birth of the baby. You may cry, have mood changes, or just feel blue. These feelings usually go away in a few weeks. If these feelings persist, tell your doctor.
Common symptoms of post-partum depression are:
- Feelings of sadness or hopelessness
- Lethargy (tiredness, exhaustion, laziness)
- Lack of interest in the infant
- Loss of interest in normal activities
- Crying a lot
- Feelings of worthlessness
- Difficulty focusing or making decisions
- Appetite and sleep changes
Depression is treatable and should be treated to prevent it from occurring in the future.
As a new mother, there are many things that you can do to help prevent postpartum depression:
- Get as much rest as you can
- Ask for help with the daily chores and taking care of the baby
- Talk with other mothers to learn from their experiences
- Share your feelings with your family
- Avoid spending time alone
If you are experiencing any signs of depression, please talk to your doctor immediately or call Partners for Healthy Babies at 1-800-251-BABY (2229).
Only 1-6% of postpartum women have a condition called postpartum psychosis. With this, a woman might feel like she is having unusual thoughts, or hears or feels voices and feelings inside that may tell her to hurt herself or her baby. If this is happening to you, do not be alone with your baby. Call 911 right away.
