Did you know? 20 in 100 women may suffer from depression during or after pregnancy. While depression is a common problem during pregnancy, pregnant women and new moms often do not recognize that they’re facing postpartum depression because the symptoms overlap with many of the usual discomforts of pregnancy (eg, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and low libido). In addition, women are often reluctant to complain about their symptoms, perhaps because of perceived social expectations that new mothers are supposed to be happy.
What is Depression?
Depression is more than just feeling “blue” or “down in the dumps” for a few days. It’s a serious illness that involves the brain. With depression, sad, anxious, or “empty” feelings don’t go away and interfere with day-to-day life and routines. These feelings can be mild to severe. The good news is that most people with depression get better with treatment.
Symptoms and Signs of Postpartum Depression
Some normal changes during and after pregnancy can cause symptoms similar to those of depression. But if you have any of the following symptoms of postpartum depression for more than 2 weeks, discuss it with your doctor:
- Feeling sad, hopeless, and overwhelmed
- Crying a lot
- Feeling restless or moody
- Having no energy or motivation
- Eating too little or too much
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Having trouble focusing or making decisions
- Feeling worthless and guilty
- Losing interest or pleasure in activities you used to enjoy
- Withdrawing from friends and family
- Having headaches, aches and pains, or stomach problems that don’t go away
If you have these symptoms, we encourage you to speak with your obstetrician or family doctor to seek treatment services for your depression.
If you live in the area, call us and schedule an appointment with our pediatrician or family doctor to learn more about postpartum depression. We will gladly assist you.
Good luck with your pregnancy from all of us at Little Silver Pediatrics & Family Medicine
(732) 741-5600.
Now you know about postpartum depression, pass it on!