What disorders are included in Perinatal Mood Disorders?
-Baby Blues, which affect up to 80% of women. Symptoms consist of irritability, frustration, anger and fatigue, generally come and go and only last about a few weeks. Although Baby Blues don’t require medical intervention, the new mom still needs TLC! A woman experiencing Baby Blues should rely on her support system, including her partner, family and friends and let them take care of her while she focuses on bonding with her baby and recovery. -Postpartum Depression (PPD) can affect up to 20% of new moms. PPD is further divided into: Postpartum OCD and Postpartum Anxiety Disorder. In general, PPD symptoms are more severe and last longer than the symptoms of Baby Blues. Symptoms also include sleep and appetite disturbances, frequent and uncontrollable crying, anger, suicidal thoughts, obsessing over baby’s health, guilt over perceived inability to care and/ or bond with the new baby. New moms often feel overwhelmed, and inadequate. Early screening and diagnosis are very important. -Post
