 |
| If you're struggling with your feelings during or after your pregnancy, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider and read our postpartum depression booklet. |
Something's not right: your feelings during and after pregnancy.
Baby blues
The "baby blues" are very common and can begin soon after birth. Fifty to 80 percent of new moms will have feelings of sadness, anger or nervousness. Some women have lots of ups and downs-like a roller coaster. Symptoms of the "baby blues" can include trouble sleeping, irritability, fatigue, anxiety, restlessness or worry and moodiness including crying easily.
The baby blues usually go away in about two weeks. Take good care of yourself. Ask for and accept help from others. The symptoms should get better with time. Let your healthcare provider know if the blues last more than two weeks or if you are feeling worse.
Depression and anxiety
Depression and anxiety are much worse than the "baby blues" and last longer. They can be treated with caring support, medication or by talking with a counselor.
About one in seven women will have depression or anxiety during pregnancy, soon after pregnancy or any time in the year after birth. Depression is the most common complication of pregnancy. No one knows for sure what causes depression and anxiety, but there are some factors that increase your risk. These include:
- Disrupted sleep patterns.
- A past history of depression.
- A family history of depression.
- Anxiety or any other mental health issue.
- An unplanned or unwanted pregnancy.
- Lack of support from loved ones.
Let your healthcare provider know if you experience any signs of depression or anxiety right away. Together, you can decide the best treatment to help you feel better. Be sure to read our postpartum depression booklet for more information.
|
