While it's common to experience the blues after having a baby, as many as 15% of women develop postpartum depression within the first year of giving birth. There are treatment options available, including a fairly new drug that was approved by the FDA in 2023. Even still, it can take insurance companies years to approve new treatments and many women don't realize they're dealing with postpartum depression.
We reached out to physician and perinatal psychotherapist Dr. Jill Zechowy for expert information on the latest facts about postpartum depression. Dr. Zechowy is author of the Motherhood Survival Manual and sees patients in her clinic in Santa Rosa, California.
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Is It the Baby Blues or Postpartum Depression?
It's essential to know what signs to look for in yourself or others that may point to postpartum depression. Dr. Zechowy explains that around 75% of all women may experience feelings of sadness for a couple of weeks after giving birth. But, if it lasts longer, it's probably time to seek help.
While fatigue, mood swings, and feeling teary happen to many new moms, with postpartum depression, these low moods persist. Some signs to watch out for include:
- Low mood that lasts for over two weeks
- Difficulty bonding with your baby
- Intrusive thoughts (such as worries of harm coming to your baby)
- Episodes of rage
- Difficulty sleeping (even when the baby is asleep)
- Feelings of being overwhelmed
- Thoughts of harm to yourself or your baby
Most importantly, if you feel that you need help, don't hesitate to reach out. It's not worth waiting to see if you will get better or worse. There are treatments available, and Dr. Zechowy tells us that even a few sessions with a perinatal therapist can make a difference, especially when it's early on.
What Is the #1 Sign You May Have Postpartum Depression?
Dr. Zechowy explains that postpartum depression looks different for everyone. However, there is one common sign that many women experience. “I’d say the most common element is feeling like you are failing at motherhood.” Dr. Zechowy shares. “Postpartum depression makes moms feel like no matter how much they give, it’s never enough. Depression makes wonderful, loving, caring mothers feel like they are not enough for their baby. It robs them of the joys of motherhood.”
When Do Symptoms Start?
Women can develop postpartum depression within a year after giving birth. Although we typically think of women developing symptoms soon after having a baby, Dr. Zechowy explains some women begin to experience postpartum depression during pregnancy.
Other women may not experience symptoms until months after the baby is born. Experts recommend that women get screened for depression during the first year after giving birth so that those who develop later cases are not missed.
What Treatment Options Are Available?
Treatment options may include antidepressant medication, talk therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, and support groups. If you're struggling, reach out to your healthcare provider or obstetrician-gynecologist (OB/GYN.)
Obstetricians can diagnose and provide medication for postpartum depression. They can also refer patients to perinatal psychotherapists. These are mental health professionals who specialize in women’s emotional health during pregnancy and postpartum. You can also find perinatal psychotherapists at Postpartum Support International. According to Dr. Zechowy, “When not treated, postpartum depression can sometimes last for years.”
What If You Suspect a Loved One Has Postpartum Depression?
Surprisingly, mothers aren't the only ones who suffer from postpartum depression. Research has shown that new fathers may also experience depression. If you suspect your loved one may be struggling with depression, reach out to them. According to Dr. Zechowy, people don't always realize they have depression. She suggests opening up the lines of communication by telling your loved one that you see what a great job he or she is doing, but that you wonder if the reason it's so hard is because they may have postpartum depression. Encourage your loved one to see their doctor who can screen them for depression and provide the support they need.
Common Myths and Misconceptions
Dr. Zechowy tells us one common myth about those with postpartum depression. “Many women think it’s better for their baby to slog through depression rather than treat it.” You may think you're being strong by carrying on, but the reality is there can be negative consequences if postpartum depression is left untreated. Children of parents with untreated depression may experience behavior issues, emotional disturbances, and poor cognitive functioning.
How to Reduce the Chance of Getting Postpartum Depression
There are things you can do to protect yourself from developing postpartum depression. Dr. Zechowy recommends the following steps:
- Increase social and hands-on support
- Find ways to enhance your bond with your baby (such as skin-to-skin contact, eye contact, cuddling, and talking or singing to your baby)
- Learn sleep strategies (such as sleep when the baby sleeps)
- Begin a postpartum exercise routine (start with gentle walks, pelvic floor, and abdominal exercises)
National Policy for 12 Weeks of Paid Parental Leave Could Make a Difference
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Finally, research has shown women who are given 12 weeks of paid parental leave show a decreased risk of postpartum depression. Currently, under the Family Leave and Medical Act in the U.S., women receive 12 weeks of unpaid time off for the birth of a child while their job is protected. However, many are unable to afford this much time off without pay. New parents in countries that offer paid parental leave after childbirth have lower rates of mental health issues and depression during the postpartum period.
We have to consider all the ways to provide support to women struggling with postpartum depression and paid parental leave could help to prevent postpartum depression in the first place.
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