BOSTON OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY LLC
 
POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION
Having a baby is a joyous time for most women. After childbirth, though, many mothers feel sad, afraid, angry, or anxious. Most new mothers have these feelings in a mild form called postpartum blues. Sometimes these feelings are called baby blues. Postpartum blues almost always go away in a few days.
About 10% of new mothers have a greater problem called postpartum depression. Postpartum depression lasts longer and is more intense. It often requires counseling and treatment. Postpartum depression can occur after any birth, not just the first.

In fact 70-80% of women will have baby blues or feelings of depression, anxiety and be upset at themselves, their partner or their baby. They may express doubts about their abilities to care for their infants, cry for no reason, have trouble sleeping, eating or making decisions. These feelings may come and go in the first few days and usually go away within a few hours or up to two weeks. Often talking to your partner, other mom's, or joining a new mom's support group can help.

Postpartum Depression can happen a few days or even months after childbirth. A woman can have feelings similar to the baby blues - sadness, despair, anxiety, irritability - but she feels them much more strongly than she would with the baby blues. Postpartum depression often keeps a woman from doing the things she needs to do every day. When a woman's ability to function is affected, this is a sure sign that she needs to see her health care provider right away. If a woman does not get treatment for postpartum depression, symptoms can get worse and last for as long as 1 year. While postpartum depression is a serious condition, it can be treated with medication and counseling.

Some warning signs for postpartum depression:

  • The baby blues don't go away after 2 weeks.
  • Strong feelings of depression and anger come 1-2 months after childbirth.
  • Feelings of sadness, doubt, guilt, or helplessness seem to increase each week and get in the way of normal functions.
  • Unable to care for herself or her baby.
  • Sleeping too much, or unable to sleep when tired
  • Trouble doing tasks at home or on the job.
  • Marked appetite changes.
  • Things that used to bring pleasure no longer do.
  • Concern and worry about the baby are too intense, or interest in the baby is lacking.
  • Anxiety or panic attacks occur. Afraid to be left alone in the house with the baby.
  • Fears of harming the baby.
  • Thoughts of self-harm, maybe even suicide.

What can you do?

  • Contact your doctor for help. Depression, like any other illness, requires treatment from an experienced provider. Getting treatment for depression can greatly shorten the duration of this illness.
  • Get plenty of rest. Don't try to do it all. Try to nap when the baby naps.
  • Have your partner help with feedings at night.
  • Ask for help from family and friends, especially if you have other children.
  • Take special care of yourself. Shower and dress each day, and get out of the house. Get a babysitter or take the baby with you. Go for a walk, meet with a friend, and talk with other new mothers.
  • Spend time with your partner. Tell them how you feel. Often just talking things out with someone you trust can provide relief.
  • Call your doctor if your feelings do not lessen and you have trouble coping. Blues that don't go away after a few weeks may be a sign of a more severe depression.
  • Tell your doctor if you are afraid you might neglect or hurt your baby or yourself.
  • Your doctor can refer you to experts in treating depression. These experts will give emotional support, help you sort through your feelings, and help you make changes in your life.

Resources:
The Parent Connection. Parent Connection support groups give parents the opportunity to meet other parents in their community, share experiences, questions and challenges. Groups meet in Dedham and Lexington locations and are offered free of charge. Call the Parent Connection office at 617-667-2229 for start dates and to register.
Jewish Family and Child Services. Postpartum adjustment support groups, free home visits for new mom's, specialized therapeutic home visits and treatment. 617-558-1278.

Websites:
http://www.depressionafterdelivery.com
Books: Marie Osmond, Behind the Smile: My Journey Out of Postpartum Depression
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