This site is for educational purposes only and is not to replace the advice of a healthcare professional.

     Contrary to popular belief, pregnancy is not ALWAYS a happy and exciting experience!  Research has shown that 15-20% of pregnant women experience depression.  Of these, as many as 15% are so depressed they actually attempt suicide.

     Depression that occurs during pregnancy is called perinatal depression.  It's hard to say exactly how many women get this type of depression because during preganancy there are symptoms similar to depression such as; changes in body weight, sleeping problems, fatigue and emotional problems.  Research has even shown that depression is one of the most common problems or complications during pregnancy.

     During pregnancy a woman's hormones are constantly changing and this can cause chemical changes in the brain that can lead to depression.   If, during pregnancy, a woman goes through a tramatic or stressful event, such as a death in the family, this can also bring about depression.  There are many other factors that can cause depression during pregnancy.  Some of them may be; marital or financial problems, lack of family support, anxiety about the fetus or delivery, problem with a previous pregnancy, history of substance abuse or family history of depression.

     If a woman experiences depression after pregnancy, this is called Postpartum Depression.  Shortly after childbirth hormonal changes take place in a woman's body that may trigger symptoms of depression.  Postpartum Depression is not to be confused with the "Baby Blues,"  which are experienced by approximately 80% of Mothers and last a few days to a few weeks after delivery.

     Postpartum depression can actually happen anytime within the first year after childbirth.  Other things besides hormonal changes can contribute to Postpartum depression such as; tiredness after the delivery and not getting enough rest,  lack of help or support from spouse or family, overwhelming feelings about having a new baby to take care of, stress from not being able to work or get anything done around the house.  Some women even feel like they've lost more than just their pre-pregnancy figure, but also their identity f who they are or who they were before their pregnancy.  Some even feel as if they've lost control.

     Many women don't tell anyone about their feelings or symptoms because they feel ashamed or embarrassed.  Some even feel guilty because they're supposed to be happy.  They worry what other people think.  The thing is, postpartum depression affects a woman's well-being and often keeps her from functioning.  This is why postpartum depression needs to be treated by a Doctor.  There is so much help available for postpartum depression sufferers such as; individual counseling,support groups and medication.  The thing is to use whatever the individual woman needs to get her feeling like herself again.

     Other things that can help are getting plenty of rest. Try napping when the baby naps.  Don't be afraid to ask family for help with chores or watching your baby or other children.  Don't keep your feelings bottled up, talk to your spouse, family and Doctor.  Don't spend too much time alone dwelling on your negative feelings. Join a support group or look in online chatrooms for women who've experienced the same thing. You'd be surprised how many women have experienced Postpartum depression. Try to relieve your stress.

     So in summary, if you are experiencing Postpartum depression please don't hesitate to get the help you need.  Remember not to be ashamed, embarrassed or even feel guilty.  Even famous people such as Brooke Shields and Marie Osmond have gone through Postpartum depression.  They've even written books on their experience so that they can help those who suffer as they did.  So, don't delay.   Get the help you need now.  You and your baby deserve it!