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Risk Factors for
Postpartum Mood Disorders
Adapted From
Pregnancy,
Childbirth, and the Newborn
(©
2001, Childbirth Education Association of Seattle)
Postpartum mood disorders (PPMD) is the term used
to describe four emotional conditions occurring in the first year after
giving birth. These four conditions include anxiety and panic disorder,
obsessive-compulsive disorder, postpartum depression and post traumatic
stress disorder. About 20% of women will have PPMD following birth and
they may experience one or more of these conditions. PPMD usually occurs
within two months of giving birth though it may occur anytime in the
first year following childbirth.
These factors increase a woman’s risk of having a
postpartum mood disorder:
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History or presence of emotional problems, panic
disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), or depression in self
or immediate family member.
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Traumatic pregnancy or childbirth experience.
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Recent major stresses - miscarriage(s), death in
the family, a move, change or loss of job, marriage, separation or
divorce.
-
Unsupportive spouse or partner or no partner.
-
Lack of supportive friends or family.
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History of severe premenstrual symptoms such as
depression, irritability, anger.
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History of physical, emotional or sexual abuse.
-
History of substance abuse or living with someone
who is abusing drugs or alcohol.
-
Past history of or current eating disorder.
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Unplanned and unwanted pregnancy.
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Low self esteem.
-
Poor or absent mother-daughter relationship.
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Financial pressures.
-
High expectations of yourself with a personal
need to be "perfect" and "in control".
-
Having a "high need" infant or an infant with a
chronic medical condition.
-
History of infertility.
-
Thyroid disease.
-
Excessive sleep deprivation
For more information on postpartum mood disorders,
see the 2001 edition of Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Newborn
or see www.wpcan.wa.gov/ppd
If you need someone to talk to about these issues: call
1-888-404-7763 for Postpartum Support International.
Recommended Books:
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