Skip to site content
Postpartum depression and anxiety are the number one complications of having a baby. But don’t let these common, treatable conditions rob you of this special time in your family’s life.
Most mothers have heard about the “baby blues.” This common condition occurs in 50 to 80 percent of women within the first few days after delivery and usually lasts a few days to about two weeks. Postpartum depression and/or postpartum anxiety is more intense and long-lasting and can emerge any time in the first year after birth. Postpartum depression describes a spectrum of mood disorders that occur in 15 to 20 percent of postpartum patients. Many of these mothers were depressed during pregnancy or had a history of depression or anxiety.
There is no single cause or reason a woman has postpartum depression/anxiety. Postpartum depression/anxiety results from a combination of biologic, hormonal, environmental and psychological factors.
You are at risk for postpartum depression if you:
The symptoms for postpartum depression are different for every woman but may include:
If your symptoms persist for more than two weeks and become more severe or interfere with activities of daily living, call your doctor. There are programs available for treatment of postpartum depression/anxiety including medical care, support groups and individual counseling. Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Chronic, untreated mood disorders can negatively affect every relationship and even can be life-threatening.
Remember, you are not alone. You are not to blame. Your experience is real, and help is available. The longer you wait for treatment, the harder it is to treat postpartum depression. If you don’t like how you are feeling, call your doctor. Tell someone.
Want to schedule an appointment with one of our providers? Call 844-467-6824 or visit SovahHealth.com/find-a-doctor.