Up to 80% of new mothers experience some form of postpartum mood disturbance following the birth of their child. For many, the symptoms are mild and disappear within 2 weeks. But a small percentage of women go on to develop some form of postpartum mood disorder.
In addition to postpartum depression, mothers may experience 1 or more of the 4 postpartum anxiety disorders: anxiety, panic, obsessive-compulsive and post-traumatic stress, or postpartum psychosis, a rare condition characterized by disorganized thinking, hallucinations and delusions.
“What many people don’t realize is that women are at risk for these conditions while pregnant as well, particularly if they have a history of depression, anxiety or bipolar,” says Dr. Katharine Weymouth, a psychiatrist specializing in women’s mental health.
But with intervention, women can recover.
Treatment options vary, depending on the disorder and symptom severity. Some women find comfort in support groups. But others may need one-on-one therapy. Medication may also be administered if the symptoms are significant.
Denise Yearian is a contributing writer.
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