Postpartum Anxiety

What is postpartum anxiety?

Postpartum anxiety is a type of perinatal mood and anxiety disorder. It affects up to 10% of women in the first year after childbirth.

What are the risk factors for postpartum anxiety?

Risk factors include:

  • a personal or family history of anxiety
  • previous perinatal depression or anxiety
  • thyroid imbalance
What are the symptoms of Postpartum Anxiety?
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Appetite and sleep disturbance
  • Constant worry
  • Feeling that something bad is going to happen
  • Racing thoughts
  • Inability to sit still
  • Hot flashes
What is the treatment for Postpartum Anxiety?

Treatment plans will vary for each woman, but can include any or all of the following:

  • Self-care (including getting more sleep, eating nutritious food, help with taking care of the baby, getting more exercise & time to relax)
  • Social support (including talking to others on the phone or online and support groups)
  • Talk therapy or counseling
  • Medication
Who can help diagnose/treat Postpartum Anxiety?
  • OB/Gyn
  • Primary Care Physician (PCP)
  • Mental Health Practitioner
Additional Resource(s)
Source(s)
  • http://www.postpartum.net/learn-more/anxiety-during-pregnancy-postpartum/