Postpartum Depression-The Most Common Complication of Childbirth

Did you know that between 10 to 20% of all women experience perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, often referred to as "postpartum depression?" That's about 1 in 8 women, which is why postpartum depression is sometimes cited as being the most common complication of childbirth.

The general term "postpartum depression" is used to describe a range of disorders, including postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder, postpartum post-traumatic stress disorder, and postpartum psychosis. The symptoms associated with these disorders are more serious than the "baby blues" experienced by up to 80% of mothers. Unlike the "baby blues," which often go away after the first month or so postpartum, these more serious symptoms can last for months if left untreated.

A woman with postpartum depression might experience feelings of sadness, anger, guilt, irritability, changes in eating and sleeping habits, and lack of interest in her baby. Those with postpartum anxiety often experience extreme worries and fears, often over the health and safety of their baby. Women with postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder have repetitive unwanted thoughts or feel the need to do certain things over and over to reduce their anxiety. Postpartum PTSD is generally caused by a traumatic childbirth experience and often includes strong feelings of anxiety and flashbacks to the trauma. Postpartum psychosis is very rare, but extremely serious, and those experiencing it may have hallucinations or delusions that lead them to consider harming themselves or their baby. The symptoms associated with any of these disorders can appear anytime during the first year after giving birth.

Although postpartum depression and anxiety disorders are relatively common, many OB-GYN's don't discuss the symptoms or warning signs with their patients, so women experiencing the symptoms may feel isolated or alone. The good news is that there are effective and well-researched treatment options that help women to recover. Treatment may include increased self-care, social support, therapy, and sometimes medications.

The Lamaze Family Center Ann Arbor is proud to partner with the Postpartum Depression Support Group of the Greater Ann Arbor Area to offer a free support group for women experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression and anxiety. The group meets on the 1st and 3rd Mondays of each month from 10:30 am to noon at the Lamaze Family Center (2885 Boardwalk). Women, their partners, babies, and other supports are welcome.

If you or sometime you know are experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression or anxiety, know that support is out there. For more information about the Postpartum Depression Support Group of Greater Ann Arbor, you can call 734-418-2683.