Perinatal Depression: A Resource From The Mental Health Association of Maryland

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Perinatal depression is depression that occurs during pregnancy and up to 12 months after giving birth.

Researchers are still unsure of what exactly causes perinatal depression; however, some factors believed to contribute to perinatal depression are:

the dramatic change in hormone levels
occurring during pregnancy and postpartum
sleep deprivation
psychological stresses of new motherhood
a family history of depression

Need somebody to talk to? Call the Postpartum Depression Helpline, available 24/7,

1-800-PPD-MOMS,

(1-800-773-6667).

Perinatal depression is the number one complication of pregnancy. Find out about the signs and symptoms.

Perinatal depression is treatable. If you believe you are suffering from perinatal depression, first contact your healthcare provider for a complete medical evaluation including a thyroid screening. Many medical conditions (such as a thyroid imbalance) can mimic perinatal depression and should be ruled out before beginning treatment.

Take a free online course designed to help health care professionals identify and treat women with perinatal depression. Also find information on screening tools, helplines, and other resources that help alert a clinician that a woman may be experiencing perinatal depression.

Healthy New Moms: Maryland's Campaign to End Depression During & After Pregnancy is an outreach campaign funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,
Health Resources and Services Administration, Maternal and Child Health Bureau, and with the support of the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.