Ascension Wisconsin OB-GYN shares how to recognize and treat postpartum depression

During pregnancy, and after giving birth, it is common for women to experience a wide range of emotions as they go through many emotional, physical and psychological changes. 

However, some women experience heightened anxiety and depression during pregnancy and after birth, known as peripartum and postpartum depression. 

Whether you are a mother-to-be or just recently gave birth, it is important to remember your mental health is just as important as your physical health. 

We asked Tamara A. Adducci, MD , obstetrics and gynecologist at Ascension Medical Group Wisconsin, to help explain the signs of peripartum and postpartum depression and share what treatment options are available to women who may be experiencing symptoms.

Understanding peripartum and postpartum depression (PPD)

Many emotional, physical and psychological changes happen throughout pregnancy (peripartum) and after giving birth (postpartum). 

Within the first two weeks postpartum, these changes can cause an emotional response sometimes referred to as the “baby blues.” 

It’s normal to occasionally feel sad and tearful as the body works through postpartum, hormonal changes. However, if these feelings persist after two weeks or limit the new mother’s ability to function normally, that’s when doctors consider it postpartum depression. 

Anyone who has preexisting anxiety or depression has a higher risk of experiencing postpartum depression. Women who have a history of postpartum depression are at risk of PPD after another pregnancy as well. 

Throughout pregnancy, if a mother-to-be senses symptoms of anxiety and depression, they may be experiencing peripartum depression. 

Signs of peripartum and postpartum depression (PPD)

Symptoms of peripartum and postpartum depression vary from person to person but may include:

• Becoming anxious or worried for no reason
• Being unable to make decisions 
• Blaming yourself unnecessarily
• Crying uncontrollably
• Feeling depressed; the inability to feel happy, laugh or see the funny side of things, or look forward to the future
• Feeling like harming yourself
• Feeling worthless or guilty
• Having difficulty bonding with your new baby
• Inability to sleep 
• Losing interest in things that used to bring you joy
• Loss of appetite 
• Noticing intense irritability or anger
• Withdrawing from family or close friends

Some of the symptoms listed above are normal to experience in small amounts. However, if a person is experiencing them in excess this could be a signal for postpartum depression. 

Whether present before pregnancy, during pregnancy or after childbirth, these symptoms should be addressed. 

Treating postpartum and peripartum depression

Peripartum and postpartum depression are more common than people realize. Doctors want their patients to understand that it’s okay and necessary to seek treatment. Those feelings are out of your control and it’s not your fault. 

If you think you have postpartum or peripartum depression, the best option is to reach out to your doctor. Treatment options can vary between counseling, support groups and medication; it all depends on your individual symptoms and needs. Some women may benefit from a support group to know other women are having similar experiences and that they are not alone. Others may need medication to help treat their symptoms. There are medications that are safe, both while pregnant and after pregnancy, to treat symptoms of PPD. We’re always here to help. 

Talk to a doctor who listens

Prenatal and postpartum care are critically important for the health of mom and baby – throughout your pregnancy and beyond. Don’t delay this important care. If you are feeling sad, anxious or depressed, talk with your doctor. 

Find an OB-GYN provider who’s right for you.