Perinatal and Postpartum
Pregnancy
Pregnancy can be a challenging time with many life transitions. A developing baby causes the body to go through hormonal, emotional and physical changes. Pregnancy is a beautiful experience but can also be a time of worry, sadness or fear. Anxiety and Depression are not only a postpartum issue but occur in pregnancy as well. Some normal changes during and after pregnancy cause symptoms similar to those of depression.
Postpartum Anxiety & Depression
Having a baby is a challenging time, both physically and emotionally. After your baby is born, many women experience a range of emotions, from happiness, uncertainty and sometimes anxiety and depression. All of these emotions can be confusing for a mother.
Some new mothers experience the “baby blues” following childbirth which often passes with time. However, if symptoms or depression or anxiety persist it can become more serious then the "baby blues" and is considered Postpartum depression or anxiety. 1 in 4 women experience postpartum anxiety and depression. Postpartum Anxiety and Depression develop within the first six months after child birth and can be characterized by:
Postpartum Depression Symptoms:
Sadness
Mood swings
Fatigue
Irritability
Difficulty Concentrating
Hopelessness
Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
Loss of interest
Thoughts of harming yourself or baby
Postpartum Anxiety Symptoms:
Extreme worry or fear
Racing thoughts
Panic
Shortness of breath
Heart Palpitations
Sometimes some women may feel inadequate of caring for their baby, hopelessness, despair, anger, shame or guilt. In addition to postpartum anxiety and depression, some mothers may experience a traumatic childbirth, NICU experience or infant loss. These challenging experiences may lead to a range or emotions. Unresolved birth trauma may negatively impact your thoughts, feelings, behaviors and relationships with others.
P/P Counselors:
Lana Batinic, MA, LCPC
Lauren Fallon, MSW, LCSW
If you are having difficulty during pregnancy or postpartum and experiencing any symptoms that are concerning, please contact Life Balance Counseling at 847.220.6981 or contact us online. We are here to help you through this difficult time.