Signs and Symptoms

Perinatal depression often goes unnoticed because many of the discomforts during pregnancy and after childbirth are similar to the signs and symptoms of depression. For instance, changes in appetite and trouble sleeping are common in pregnancy and can be seen in depressed women as well.

Some medical conditions, such as anemia or hypothyroidism (thyroid disease), can cause a pregnant woman to lack energy.

If you have any of the symptoms listed below that last for two weeks or longer, talk to your healthcare provider. He or she will check to see what might be causing your symptoms. You need to be checked for depression if symptoms continue and interfere with your daily life and if your provider rules out other medical conditions.

Warning Signs and Symptoms of Depression:

• Feeling very sad, anxious or cranky
• Frequent crying
• Not feeling up to doing daily tasks
• Not feeling hungry, or eating when not hungry
• Not wanting to take care of yourself (dress, shower, fix hair)
• Trouble sleeping when tired, or sleeping too much
• Things don’t seem fun or interesting anymore
• Trouble concentrating
• Feeling hopeless
• Trouble making decisions
• Worrying too much about the baby or not caring about the baby
• Fear of harming or being alone with the baby
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

Click here to get information on treating perinatal depression.

Need somebody to talk to?  Call the Postpartum Depression Helpline, available 24/7, 1-800-PPD-MOMS (1-800-773-6667).