For many childbearing individuals, having a baby can be an exciting and happy time, but it can also bring up feelings of distress, anxiety and even despair. When these difficult feelings become overwhelming, long lasting, and pervasive, some women may develop perinatal depression, which refers to depression occurring during pregnancy or after childbirth. This term is also often associated with the term “postpartum depression” which specifically refers to depression following the birth of a child whereas, “perinatal” recognizes that symptoms can begin while an individual is pregnant. The exact cause of perinatal depression is not known, but hormonal changes are thought to be a contributing factor. Estrogen and progesterone levels are at their highest when a person is pregnant, but drop quickly in the days after child birth; this sudden change is likely to be a primary reason for the development of perinatal depression.

Prevalence

An estimated 1 in 7 women will experience perinatal depression in their lifetime. This is different from “the baby blues”, which around 85% of women will experience, and lasts for around two weeks postpartum and generally resolves without extensive treatment. Perinatal depression is more prevalent in women from racial/ethnic minority groups. It is also important to note that some fathers can also experience postpartum depression and experience some of the same symptoms as their child-bearing partners.

Symptoms

Mothers may experience a variety of symptoms when dealing with Perinatal Depression some of these include:

• Feeling sad or having a depressed mood
• Changes in appetite, eating more or less than usual
• Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
• Loss of energy or increased fatigue
• Loss of pleasure or interest or in activities once enjoyed
• Difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions
• Feeling worthless or guilty
• Withdrawing from family and friends
• Crying or Tearful Spells
• Anxiety
• Thoughts of death or suicide
• Lack of interest in the baby, not feeling bonded to the baby, or feeling very anxious about/around the baby
• Feelings of being a bad mother
• Fear of harming the baby or oneself
• Post-Partum psychosis

Risk Factors

Some things can put certain people at a higher risk of developing perinatal depression such as:

• Having depression before pregnancy
• Having a family history of depression
• Having a difficult or traumatic birth
• Problems with a previous pregnancy or birth
• A lack of support from family, friends, or partners
• Difficulties with breastfeeding
• Having a baby that was born prematurely and/or has special health care needs
• Experiencing domestic violence
• Are under the age of 20
• It is also important to note that other factors such as socioeconomic status, experiences of discrimination in health care and other life stressors can also increase risk.

What can help reduce symptoms of Perinatal Depression

1. Therapy: Individual therapy can provide a safe, confidential space for people struggling with perinatal depression to process their emotions, develop coping skills, and receive support during a uniquely vulnerable time.
2. Support Groups: Support groups can provide an opportunity to connect with others experiencing a similar situation and reduce isolation. Community allows for an opportunity for people to receive support and validation as well a space to learn and get advice.
3. Self care: Getting adequate rest, good nutrition and exercise can be useful in reducing some of the symptoms associated with perinatal depression.
4. Medication: Certain anti-depressant medications can carry a low risk to a developing baby and may be useful to mothers struggling with Perinatal Depression. Make sure to consult with your doctor!