Predicting Postpartum Depression

Posted by Brenda Lane May 20, 2008

Are you expecting a baby and concerned about your risk for postpartum depression? Perhaps you have had depression prior to becoming pregnant or even during your pregnancy. You might also be wondering about how potentially having postpartum depression could affect your ability to parent your baby.

While there are many risk factors for postpartum depression, new research indicates that women who have reported symptoms of depression during late pregnancy are more inclined to have postpartum depression (PPD). In addition, PPD is one of the most common causes of stress for new parents.

If this news sounds like doom and gloom, remember that there are numerous treatment options for PPD as well as many ways to find support that you may need in the postpartum period. Many new mothers find that support from friends, family and/or a postpartum doula can go a long way to give you the confidence you need when you are feeling most vulnerable after giving birth.

Warmly,

Brenda