Oh! Baby!

Depression occurring during pregnancy or even up to a year after delivery is called postpartum or perinatal depression. Researchers believe that depression is one of the most common complications during and after pregnancy. Postpartum depression is especially not recognized die to other normal pregnancy changes causing similar symptoms, such as tiredness, insomnia, increased emotional reactions, and of course changes in weight.

Severity of symptoms range from "baby blues" to postpartum psychosis.

The baby blues generally happen in the days after childbirth and go away in a few days. Symptoms include sudden mood swings, sadness, sleeping problems, irritability, restlessness, anxiety, and loneliness. These symptoms aren't severe, and don't require professional treatment. During this time, the new mom should nap often, when the baby does. Ask for help from friends and family, and get support from other moms.

Postpartum depression can occur anytime within the first year after childbirth. Some symptoms are the same as having baby blues, only on a larger scale. In addition, postpartum depression includes the feelings of guilt and worthlessness. This depression affects mom's well-being and prevents her from functioning well for a longer period of time. As this type of depression will not go away on it's own, the new mother will need treatment by a doctor. If left untreated, this depression can last for years.

Postpartum psychosis occurs in 1 or 2 out of every 1000 births, and usually begins in the first 6 weeks after birth. Usually women who have bipolar disorder or other psychiatric problems are at higher risk for developing postpartum psychosis. Symptoms may include delusions, hallucinations, sever sleep disturbances, and obsessive thoughts about the baby. She may have rapid mood swings, and thoughts of hurting herself or her baby. Postpartum psychosis obviously needs to be treated by professionals.

Women who experience any level of depression often don't' tell anyone about their symptoms. They may feel they are unfit mothers, and are ashamed, guilty or embarrassed by their symptoms. However perinatal depression can happen to any woman, those affected can still be fantastic mothers with help and support.

Speak to your doctor or midwife if you are having symptoms of depression while you are pregnant or after you deliver your baby. Your doctor or midwife can give you a questionnaire to test for depression and can also refer you to a mental health professional who specializes in treating depression.

Here are some other helpful tips:

* Try to get as much rest as you can. Try to nap when the baby naps.
* Stop putting pressure on yourself to do everything. Do as much as you can and leave the rest!
* Ask for help with household chores and nighttime feedings. Ask your husband or partner to bring the baby to you so you can breastfeed. If you can, have a friend, family member, or professional support person help you in the home for part of the day.
* Talk to your husband, partner, family, and friends about how you are feeling.
* Do not spend a lot of time alone. Get dressed and leave the house. Run an errand or take a short walk.
* Spend time alone with your husband or partner.
* Talk with other mothers, so you can learn from their experiences.
* Join a support group for women with depression. Call a local hotline or look in your telephone book for information and services.
* Don’t make any major life changes during pregnancy. Major changes can cause unneeded stress. Sometimes big changes cannot be avoided. When that happens, try to arrange support and help in your new situation ahead of time.