MemorialCare - Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care

The perinatal period begins at conception and concludes at the end of the first year after your baby’s birth. It can also be a time of significant physical and psychological changes for you and sometimes your spouse or partner. This chart provides an overview of 3 psychological conditions associated with the perinatal period . Perinatal MOOD DISORDERS

PERINATAL DEPRESSION (PND)

PERINATAL ANXIETY (PNA)

POSTPARTUM PSYCHOSIS

• 1 in 5 women and 1 in 10 men may experience symptoms

• Very rare condition requiring immediate intervention and medical care • Symptoms can vary, may change quickly, and differ from person to person

• 1 in 5 women and 1 in 10 men may experience symptoms • Significant overlap between anxiety and depression • Can easily be treated and managed

Overview

• Usually 3 to 14 days after childbirth

• Any time during perinatal period

• Can start any time during perinatal period • Significant overlap between anxiety and depression • Constant excessive worry • Fear of something bad happening • Racing thoughts • Sleep and appetite problems • Unable to relax or sit still • Dizziness • Hot flashes • Diarrhea • Nausea

Onset

• Agitation • Confusion • High energy • Racing thoughts • Sleep and visual disturbances • Speaking rapidly or nonsensically • Feeling afraid or like you’re under someone’s control

• Eating and sleeping disturbances • Irritability • Anger • Nervousness • Feeling guilty, worthless or hopeless • Excessive crying • Trouble concentrating • Not enjoying life • Feeling like a bad parent • Lack of interest in baby • Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby

Possible Symptoms

• Imagining something crawling on your skin • Thoughts of harming yourself or your family

• Feelings of anger • Irritability or rage • Frequently nervous or on edge

• Have someone step in to care for your baby • Call 911 or take person to the closest emergency room

• Talk with your health care provider or a mental health professional • Go online to find community resources support • If symptoms become severe, call 911 or go to closest emergency room

What to Do

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Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care