Postpartum depression (PPD) is on the rise. According to data published in 2024, pregnancy-related depression affects almost 20% of women — an increase of nearly 10% from 2010 to 2021.
While more women are struggling with depression during and after pregnancy, the drastic increase is also due to growing awareness of the mental health condition and a change in the screening process.
Because it’s Mental Health Awareness month, our caring team at Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC is using this blog to debunk common myths about postpartum depression.
Myth 1: It’s only the baby blues
Having a baby is supposed to be a time of joy, but most new moms experience a range of feelings, laughing one minute and crying the next. The mood changes you have after childbirth are often called the baby blues.
Though symptoms are similar, postpartum depression and the baby blues aren't the same. The baby blues are temporary and resolve within a couple of weeks, while PPD is a long-term mood disorder that requires medical care.
Myth 2: Depression only happens after birth
If it’s called postpartum depression, it must only happen after birth. But the name is misleading. Though most women experience depressive symptoms within four to eight weeks after childbirth, you also can experience them during pregnancy or several months after delivery.
The myth that depression only happens after birth may stop some women from seeking help when they need it.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists changed its screening guidelines in 2023, recommending screening for perinatal depression — an umbrella term that includes prenatal depression and PPD — at two or more prenatal appointments and at all postpartum visits.
Myth 3: Symptoms go away on their own
Perinatal depression is a medical condition that requires medical intervention. Symptoms don’t go away on their own, and without help they worsen. Treatment varies but may include psychotherapy and medication.
Myth 4: Hormones cause postpartum depression
The sudden change in hormone levels following childbirth do play a role in mood swings, but they don’t cause this mood disorder. Many factors may trigger PPD, including stress, sleep deprivation, and genetics.
Myth 5: Postpartum depression is preventable
Anyone can develop PPD, and there’s no known way to prevent it. However, it’s more common in women with a history of depression. Our team may do more screenings if we think you’re at greater risk. Early diagnosis and treatment can lessen the severity and duration of the mood disorder.
Myth 6: Antidepressants are unsafe when breastfeeding
Some women with PPD benefit from antidepressants to alleviate symptoms. But you may feel uneasy about taking medications if you’re breastfeeding.
Medications can get into breast milk but don’t affect the well-being of your baby. We can talk to you about antidepressants that are considered safe while breastfeeding and develop a treatment plan that works for you.
Myth 7: Depression only affects the birth mother
While we focus on the mother’s mental health during and after pregnancy, depression can affect your partner, too. It’s important that you and your partner are aware of the effects having a newborn has on your mental well-being and get help when you need it.
Postpartum depression makes it difficult to take care of yourself and your baby — getting help benefits both you and your baby. Do you think you or someone you know might be depressed? If you’re feeling down or anxious, the team at Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC, can help. We offer mental health counseling with a licensed mental health professional.
Call us today in Hastings or Grand Island, Nebraska, or request an appointment online.
