Postpartum Depression Facts and Signs

After giving birth many women struggle with multiple feelings and emotions.

Some risk factors that put woman at high risk for post-partum depression include:

• Prenatal depression

• Prenatal anxiety

• Self-esteem issues

• Childcare stress

• Life stress

• Insufficient social support

• Marital relationship difficulties

• Unplanned/unwanted pregnancy

• Low socioeconomic status

If you are in one of these categories it is important to be aware and abreast that this could impact you. Some signs to look for that you are experiencing postpartum depression: 

• Fatigue

• Feeling sad, hopeless, and/or overwhelmed

• Trouble sleeping and eating

• Feelings of guilt and worthlessness

• Losing interest in things that you used to enjoy

• Withdrawing from family and friends

• No interest in your baby

• Thoughts of hurting yourself or your baby

It is imperative that you discuss these feelings with you OB/GYN or reach out to a Mental Health professional for an evaluation. Beck, Cheryl Tatano. Predictors of Postpartum Depression. September 2001. Nursing Research. https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/5f1d/4110299a6342ab8d1c21130d0635f976d66f.pdf