When a baby is born, so is a mother, and it can come with a flood of emotions. Some you may expect, while others you maybe never thought you’d feel.
Postpartum depression and the “baby blues” are two common experiences that mothers may have during their pregnancy and postpartum. Dr. Karen Hulbert, a Family Medicine Physician with ThedaCare Physicians-Markesan, explains the difference and the importance of seeking treatment.
Know the Signs
A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study found that one out of 10 women in the United States reported symptoms of major depression in the last year. That study states that postpartum depression rates differ based on age, race, and ethnicity. In addition, postpartum depression estimates vary by state. As many as one in five women may experience the condition.
“There are several ways to know if you or a loved one is experiencing postpartum blues or is developing postpartum depression,” Dr. Hulbert says.
Symptoms of postpartum depression and the baby blues can include, but are not limited to:
Postpartum Depression
- Fatigue
- Feeling sad or hopeless
- Feeling withdrawn or disconnected
- Feeling guilty or angry
- Worry and anxiety about the health of the baby
- Concern about one’s ability to care for their baby
- Lack of response to support and reassurance
Baby Blues
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Decrease in concentration
- Loss of appetite
- Sadness
When to Seek Help
When women begin to have these feelings or experiences, or if they’re questioning themselves, it’s time to seek help.
“It can be difficult to identify it when you’re in the middle of it,” Dr. Hulbert says. “Big changes are taking place. Hormone levels vary, and there’s additional stress, lack of sleep, and learning how to be a parent. It’s a lot.
“We want women, and their partners, to feel empowered to seek help. It takes strength to recognize there could be an issue and ask for guidance. We want to be that resource for mothers and families.”
Baby blues are milder, peak in a couple of days, and typically resolve within two weeks. Women with baby blues can have up to an 11 times higher risk of developing postpartum depression, Dr. Hulbert says.
The symptoms of postpartum depression last longer and interfere with daily life. Major depression causes significant distress or prevents mothers from functioning the way they would want to with their baby, partner, and loved ones, Dr. Hulbert says.
Postpartum depression can start during pregnancy and occur anytime during the first year of the baby’s life. Those experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression or baby blues should communicate how they’re feeling to their doctor, who can monitor symptoms.
“I continue screening people for depression through the whole first year of the baby’s life because I know it can sneak up on people sometimes,” she said. “Our care teams can work through this with families, provide an action plan, and begin the healing process.”
Postpartum Depression Treatment
Many postpartum depression treatment options are available.
“Some mothers respond well to therapy or counseling,” Dr. Hulbert says. “Others need medication, and that’s OK. Whether you’re breastfeeding or not breastfeeding, there are treatment options. We will work through this with you.”
Dr. Hulbert says she likes to focus on having a relationship with her new parent patients because that trusting connection can be the open door for these difficult and sensitive conversations.
Self-Care
Parenting a baby can be stressful even under the best circumstances. It’s important for new moms to care for themselves along with caring for baby. Follow these general guidelines:
- Sleep as much as possible, and rest when baby is napping
- Eat healthy foods
- Go for a walk — exercise, fresh air, and sunshine can do wonders
- Accept help when people offer it
- Relax and focus on self-care and baby care — don’t worry about chores
Focus on the Entire Family’s Health
Another CDC study found that about 4% of fathers experience depression in the first year after their child’s birth.
“I screen dads and partners too,” Dr. Hulbert says. “I like to make sure that during an appointment both parents are aware of symptoms to watch for because they may not recognize the signs in themselves or their partner. It’s when they go home and see these things happening in everyday life that might spark a conversation.”
Dr. Hulbert wants families to know that while these conversations may be difficult, it’s best to be open and honest to get help.
“I want all parents to remember, give yourself some grace,” Dr. Hulbert says. “There’s no such thing as a perfect parent — or a perfect baby. Just do the best you can, and remember to take care of yourself so you can be there for your little one.”
If you’re experiencing symptoms of depression as a new parent, we can help. Schedule an appointment with your primary care provider to discuss the best course of treatment.
