Mental Health

Pregnancy and giving birth can be an emotional time. A new baby can bring a range of emotions. Many women feel overwhelmed, sad, or anxious at different times during their pregnancy and after their baby is born. For many women, these feelings go away on their own. But for some women, these emotions are more serious and don’t go away.

Depression and anxiety that happen during pregnancy or anytime during the first year after the birth of your baby are medical conditions. These feelings are not something you caused, and they can be treated if you seek help.

Those who have been diagnosed with depression may have a higher risk of developing heart disease in the first two years after giving birth. If you think you may have depression, it is important to see your health care provider as soon as possible. Do not wait until your postpartum checkup.

Depression means feeling sad, empty, and/or “down”. Anxiety is feeling nervous, worried, and/or afraid. These are serious medical conditions that involve the brain and may happen during pregnancy or after birth. These feelings are more than just having a bad day or feeling nervous about an upcoming event. They are also more than “just being moody” or having the baby blues. Researchers believe that depression is one of the most common problems women experience during and after pregnancy.

Depression and anxiety may get in the way of doing everyday activities, like taking care of yourself and your baby. They are long lasting and won’t go away on their own. But they are treatable, with help.