Depression during or after pregnancy

Overview

Baby blues fade in 2 weeks. Depression lasts longer and is stronger.

Partners can get it too.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Sad, empty, or hopeless after having a baby
• Pregnant or recently gave birth

Less common

• Anxiety
• Trouble bonding
• Trouble sleeping

When to get medical care

Causes

Hormone changes, stress, past depression.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Past depression
• Little support

Possible complications

• Postpartum psychosis

Diagnosis

A screening questionnaire helps.

Questions you may be asked

• Mood, sleep, thoughts of harm

Treatment

You don't have to cope alone.

Self-care

• Tell your doctor
• Accept help
• Rest when you can

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a psychiatrist (for medicine) and a psychologist or licensed therapist (for talk therapy).

Living with it

• Keep a regular sleep, meal, and activity routine.
• Tell one trusted person how you're doing, and plan who to call on hard days.
• Limit alcohol and drugs. They often make symptoms worse.
• In a crisis, call or text 988 any time.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Support groups and helplines

• NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness): Free support groups and a helpline (1-800-950-6264) for people and families.
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 any time for free, private support in a crisis.
• Postpartum Support International: Help for mood problems during and after pregnancy: 1-800-944-4773.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can keep working or going to school.
• Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.
• The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) may let you take unpaid time off for treatment without losing your job.

For caregivers

• Listen without judging, and let them know you care.
• Encourage treatment, but don't force it unless they're in danger.
• If they talk about suicide, call or text 988 with them.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Treatment works.

Myths and facts

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Depression during or after pregnancy