Postpartum depression myths

Editor’s note: If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one or would like emotional support, please call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988.

Bringing a new baby into the fold turns the world upside down for a bit, whether you’re a first-time mama or a parenthood pro. While the stress can be overwhelming in the beginning, mother and baby often settle into a routine of eating, sleeping, snuggling and playing. But for one in seven women, postpartum depression (PPD) disrupts that delicate equilibrium, knocking her over with relentless feelings of sadness, worthlessness or guilt.

Though open discussion about the disorder grows, many still misunderstand PPD. So, we asked Roper St. Francis Healthcare OB/GYN Dr. Emily Spann to dispel six common PPD myths.

Myth: This feeling is simply the “baby blues.”

Fact: A sense of sadness, restlessness or anxiety—often christened the “baby blues”—affects up to 70 percent of new mothers. However, the feeling is temporary, lasting just a week or two, and doesn’t interfere with a mother’s daily life or ability to care for her baby, family and self.

“Postpartum depression is different,” says Dr. Spann.

PPD is a mental illness that can dramatically impact behavior and health. After giving birth, a woman’s body experiences large fluctuations in hormones, and the chemical receptors in her brain may stop working well.

“Though often brushed off as early parenthood fatigue, PPD is actually a neurological hormonal condition that extends beyond the stressors of new motherhood,” adds the OB/GYN.

Red flags include an unending feeling of sadness, loss of interest in once-enjoyable activities, decreased appetite, low energy or fatigue, difficulty sleeping (beyond those newborn wake-ups) or not wanting to hold the baby.

*PPD is also frequently confused with postpartum psychosis, an extremely rare disorder in which mothers lose touch with reality, suffer delusions and may inflict harm on themselves or their infants. If you or a loved one is having suicidal or homicidal ideations, immediately dial 911 or go to the emergency room.

Myth: Women who suffer from PPD were already depressed.

Fact: Fifteen percent of women will develop postpartum depression or another perinatal mood or anxiety disorder.

“Any woman is at risk,” says Dr. Spann.

Though, women with a history of mental health disorder are more vulnerable. Dr. Spann recommends high-risk patients talk with their doctor and family members to establish a plan for seeking treatment if the need arises.

Myth: PPD is avoidable.

Fact: “There is nothing you can do to cause or prevent PPD,” says Dr. Spann.

The OB/GYN does urge patients with a history of mental health illness to talk to their doctors about the best way to continue treatment while pregnant.

“If you have anxiety, depression, bipolar or another mental health disorder, you don’t necessarily need to stop all medications,” she says. “Many regimens are safe to use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.” 

Myth: PPD happens immediately after giving birth.

Fact: While symptoms usually develop within the first few weeks, PPD can hit up to a year after delivery, Dr. Spann says.

She notes that depression can also begin during pregnancy (known as perinatal depression). If left untreated, the condition can disrupt a mother’s health and lead to low birth weight in her baby.

Myth: PPD only affects women.

Fact: Though typically associated with mothers, this sort of mental illness can happen to fathers as well, explains Dr. Spann.

About 10 percent of men experience paternal postnatal depression, a serious mood shift that can be precipitated by their own hormonal shifts after the baby arrives. Symptoms include anger, sudden outbursts, risky behavior such as substance abuse, low motivation, irritability and withdrawal from relationships.

Myth: PPD will resolve on its own.

Fact: “If not treated, 25 percent of PPD sufferers may have symptoms for up to three years,” notes the OB/GYN.

Treatment might include therapy, small group sessions and/or prescriptions.

“We have access to very effective medications that are safe to use while breastfeeding and don’t need to be taken forever,” says Dr. Spann.

If something seems off, she advises reaching out to a doctor at any hour of the day.

“Trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to ask a trusted family member for help. Lots of people call me with a spouse or parent sitting right there beside them offering encouragement.” 

If you or someone you care about is showing signs of postpartum depression, it's important to reach out for support immediately. Please contact your healthcare provider who can guide you toward the help you need with understanding and compassion. Need a doctor referral? Call (843) 402-CARE.