Are You at Risk for Postpartum Depression?

Around 1 in 7 women can develop postpartum depression (PPD). While the stats can vary (because a lot of cases go undiagnosed and unreported due to the stigma associated with acknowledging depression when a baby is supposed to be the harbinger of happiness), the problem is very real. It can start with baby blues which usually go away in a couple weeks. When left unchecked, the overwhelming postpartum emotions can quickly veer to anxiety and depression impeding a woman's ability to recover and function normally.

Here are a few key factors that can put you at risk for Postpartum Depression:

A history of depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), can play a big role in elevating your risk for developing PPD. Along with this your personal attitude towards pregnancy (say, you did not want the pregnancy, or had a rough and high-risk pregnancy) or the presence of persistent negative feelings over a longer stretch of time can severely impact your mind after the baby is born.

Complications that arise during pregnancy and childbirth such as an emergency C-Section, long labor and difficult delivery, pre-term or low birth weight baby, low hemoglobin, high blood pressure, obesity, asthma, infections, are some of the many factors that can easily prime you for PPD.

The absence of social support is a major contributor to the onset of postpartum depression. Lack of care and support group or help with baby and household chores can overwhelm any new mother. Besides these, factors like verbal or physical violence, spousal abuse, or the absence of a partner to get her through this phase can also contribute to PPD.

Your habits and lifestyle can determine if you could be at risk for PPD. Smoking, irregular sleep patterns, poor diet, and lack of physical activity can increase depressive symptoms and hamper your mental well-being.

It's great if you have the right support, lifestyle, health and mindset. But on the off chance you don't, there is no need to be afraid. If you think you could be at risk for PPD, get ahead and start working on finding a system and solution that works for you. Making small lifestyle changes, asking for help, meditation and repeating self-affirmations can have a positive influence on your physical and mental health.

A great way to and smoothen your transition to motherhood would be through our postpartum planning workbook. Download it for free and instantly get in-depth guidance so that you can truly enjoy the sweetest moments of new motherhood with your newborn without feeling overwhelmed. 

Keep in touch with Raising Mama for the community support and a world of updated information, expert advice from professionals, resources to guide you through the fourth trimester, and much more.