As a mom, feeling the baby blues is to be expected in the days and weeks after giving birth. But for some women, those feelings can linger and even deepen over time into something more serious: postpartum depression (PPD). PPD affects an estimated 1 out of 7 mothers in the United States each year according to The American Psychological Association.
Left untreated, PPD can have long-term effects on your emotional well-being, making it essential to know what this disorder is all about. So let's talk about what postpartum depression looks like—its symptoms, possible causes, and available treatments, and explore how friends and family members can help.
What’s postpartum depression exactly?
Postpartum depression is a complex mental health disorder that affects many new mothers after giving birth. It is not simply the "baby blues," which is a milder form of sadness or moodiness that occurs within the first two weeks after delivery.
In contrast, postpartum depression is typically characterized by lingering feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and anxiety, as well as changes in mood, diet, and sleeping patterns that can inhibit a mother's ability to care for herself and her baby. PPD can last for months or even years and can have significant impacts on a person’s well-being.
What causes postpartum depression?
Postpartum depression is a serious condition that affects many women after giving birth. While the exact cause of the condition is not fully understood, there are several factors that are believed to contribute to its development.
The condition can be caused by a combination of different factors including hormonal fluctuations, lifestyle changes, and psychological stressors. In this sense, changes in hormones, such as a decrease in estrogen and progesterone after childbirth, can have a significant impact on a woman's mood and emotions. Lack of sleep, fatigue, and physical exhaustion can also contribute to feelings of sadness and depression.
Additionally, some risk factors for postpartum depression include having a family history of depression or anxiety, having an unsupportive family or social network, and experiencing severe financial hardship.
9 Symptoms and signs of postpartum depression to look out for
Postpartum depression is a serious medical condition that affects many new mothers. It is important to be aware of the signs of postpartum depression so that it can be recognized and treated promptly. The signs and symptoms of postpartum depression are:
1. Severe mood swings
One of the most common symptoms is rapid mood swings. These mood swings can range from extreme sadness to explosive anger and irritability. They may come on suddenly and without warning, making it difficult for the mother to manage her emotions. This can be especially challenging when caring for a newborn, which already requires a significant amount of emotional stability.
Since the swings are intense and rapid, with the mother feeling elated one moment and deeply depressed the next, they can be difficult not only for the mother but for her partner and loved ones as well.
2. Loss of pleasure
Postpartum depression can cause a loss of pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable, which is also one of the most common symptoms of depression. This can be particularly distressing for new mothers who may feel like they're missing out on the joys of motherhood. However, it can affect other areas of their lives, for example, they may not enjoy their hobbies anymore or may not want to be with their partners. Research shows that this loss of pleasure is related to chemical changes in the brain that are normal when giving birth, but stay when suffering from postpartum depression.
The loss of pleasure can be a difficult symptom to cope with, as it affects the quality of life and may lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair. Some mothers may even feel that they are failing at motherhood or that they are not doing enough for their newborn.
3. Changes in eating habits
While the condition is typically associated with feelings of sadness and anxiety, it can also lead to changes in eating habits. In some cases, women with postpartum depression may lose their appetite and struggle to eat enough food to sustain themselves and their newborns. In other cases, they may turn to food as a way of coping with their emotions, leading to overeating and weight gain.
These changes in eating habits can further compound the feelings of guilt and shame that often accompany postpartum depression.
4. Trouble sleeping
PPD can also cause anxiety and panic attacks in some women. These feelings can be overwhelming and debilitating, making it difficult for new mothers to perform daily tasks, care for their newborns, or even leave the house.
On one hand, anxiety is characterized by feelings of worry or fear that can range from mild to severe and can affect how you think and behave. Common symptoms of anxiety include excessive worrying, difficulty concentrating, restlessness, irritability, rapid heartbeat, tightness in the chest, and more. This can include intense worry about the baby's health, obsessive thoughts, and irrational fears of harm coming to themselves or their baby.
On the other hand, a panic attack is an intense period of anxiety that can have physical symptoms such as a racing heartbeat, chest tightness, and dizziness. It typically occurs without warning and can cause the person to become overwhelmed with fear or dread.
5. Anxiety or panic attacks
PPD can also cause anxiety and panic attacks in some women. These feelings can be overwhelming and debilitating, making it difficult for new mothers to perform daily tasks, care for their newborns, or even leave the house.
On one hand, anxiety is characterized by feelings of worry or fear that can range from mild to severe and can affect how you think and behave. Common symptoms of anxiety include excessive worrying, difficulty concentrating, restlessness, irritability, rapid heartbeat, tightness in the chest, and more. This can include intense worry about the baby's health, obsessive thoughts, and irrational fears of harm coming to themselves or their baby.
On the other hand, a panic attack is an intense period of anxiety that can have physical symptoms such as a racing heartbeat, chest tightness, and dizziness. It typically occurs without warning and can cause the person to become overwhelmed with fear or dread.
6. Difficulty breastfeeding
Studies have shown that women who suffer from postpartum depression are more likely to experience challenges with breastfeeding, such as low milk supply, delayed lactation, and lack of interest in breastfeeding. The reasons for these challenges are not entirely clear and may vary from psychological and hormonal imbalances to external factors, such as lack of sleep and support.
7. Guilt and fear of missing out
Mothers suffering from postpartum depression can feel guilty about not feeling happy or excited about their new baby. They may also feel guilty if they cannot breastfeed or if they feel like they are not bonding with their newborn as they should be.
Additionally, postpartum depression can cause a fear of missing out on important moments with their child, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy and failure as a mother.
8. Thoughts of hurting themselves or their babies
While the condition is commonly associated with feelings of sadness, anxiety, and fatigue, it can also lead to a range of other symptoms, including suicidal thoughts and thoughts of harming one's baby. These thoughts can be incredibly distressing and alarming for new mothers, who may worry that they are not fit to care for their children.
However, it is important to note that these thoughts are a symptom of the illness and not a reflection of the mother's character or love for her child.
9. Bipolar disorder
Studies suggest that untreated postpartum depression can lead to bipolar disorder in some cases. Bipolar disorder is a mental illness that causes extreme changes in mood, energy, and behavior. Symptoms can include manic episodes of elevated mood and activity, as well as depressive episodes of low mood and energy.
While the exact relationship between postpartum depression and bipolar disorder is not yet fully understood, research has shown that having postpartum depression may increase a woman's chances of developing bipolar disorder later in life.
Postpartum depression treatment: Because there’s a light at the end of the tunnel
Postpartum depression is a real and serious condition that affects many new mothers. It can be overwhelming and isolating, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel. There are a number of effective postpartum depression treatments available that can greatly improve a woman's quality of life.
Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, can be an effective option to treat postpartum depression by providing a safe space to process emotions and develop coping mechanisms. Additionally, medication *as long as they’re prescribed by your doctor* such as antidepressants may also be recommended to help alleviate symptoms.
In the same way, some women may benefit from talk therapy or counseling sessions, where they can talk through their feelings and receive support and guidance from a therapist. Additionally, self-care practices such as exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep can also make a significant difference in one's overall mental well-being. Whatever the treatment plan may be, it's important to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength and courage, and with the right support, postpartum depression can be effectively managed.
So, if you, a loved one, or your partner are suffering any of the symptoms of postpartum depression, please contact your health care provider and start with the right course of treatment as soon as possible. Remember, you’re not alone!
Baby Blues vs. PPD
Adjusting to life with a new baby can be tough for any new mom. While some may experience the "baby blues", a common condition that causes feelings of sadness, moodiness, and anxiety after giving birth, others may suffer from postpartum depression (PPD).
Unlike the baby blues, PPD is a more serious condition that can last for weeks or even months, severely impacting a mother's ability to care for herself and her baby. It's important for new moms and their loved ones to be aware of the differences between these conditions and seek help if symptoms persist.
PPD vs. Postpartum Psychosis
Postpartum depression (PPD) and postpartum psychosis (PPP) are two different conditions that can affect new mothers. PPD is a common condition that affects 10-15 percent of women after childbirth, while PPP is much less common, affecting only 1 or 2 out of every 1,000 women who give birth.
Symptoms of PPD can include low mood, low energy, difficulty bonding with the baby, changes in eating habits, insomnia, irritability or anger, and feelings of guilt or worthlessness. Symptoms of PPP are more severe and can include hallucinations and delusions as well as rapid swings between extreme mood states such as mania and depression.
It is important to seek treatment for either condition as soon as possible to ensure the mother's well-being and the safety of her child. Mothers who think they may be experiencing symptoms of either condition should speak with their mental health provider for support and guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When does postpartum depression start?
It's hard to predict when it will start. The condition can start during pregnancy, immediately after the birth of the baby, or weeks later. In some cases, it can take up to a year for postpartum depression to manifest itself. So, it’s important that if you or your loved one start noting any of the symptoms we listed above, you go to your health care provider
This is why the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force that health care providers always check for the signs and symptoms of postpartum depression during and after the pregnancy. Moreover, they recommend doctors refer any patient with a high risk of having major depression during or after pregnancy.
2. How long does postpartum depression last?
The length of time it lasts can vary greatly from person to person. Some women may experience mild symptoms that last only a few weeks, while others may struggle with more severe symptoms for months or even years. Generally speaking, the condition typically lasts between six months to a year after giving birth.
3. Is postpartum depression treated the same way people treat depression?
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a type of depression experienced by new mothers, so it can be treated in the same way that other forms of depression are treated. Generally, PPD can be managed with psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of the two. Treatment should always be discussed and determined by a qualified health professional who specializes in treating postpartum depression.
Our message to you: From one parent to another
Now that you know what is postpartum depression and why it’s a serious condition that affects many new mothers. You are not alone. It's important to reach out for help and understand that there is hope for recovery. With the right support, things will get better.
Remember, you or your partner are strong and capable people, and there is no shame in seeking help. Whether it's talking to a therapist, joining a support group, or asking loved ones for assistance, there are resources available to help you through this difficult time. Remember to take care of yourself, and know that with time and support, you can overcome postpartum depression.
If you’re looking for an amazing community of mamas to support you, join our group today. And, if you want to read about the matter, we recommend checking out “Postpardon Me: A fickle woman's spiral into postpartum depression and anxiety and how the hell she found her way out of it. (Sort of.)”. Remember, you’re not alone!
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