Symptoms

Perinatal mood disorders (i.e. anxiety, depression, OCD) can happen any time from conception through 2 years after delivery. 

Some of the symptoms include: 

• Irritability 

• Anger 

• Sadness 

• Crying episodes 

• Changes in appetite 

• Changes in sleep pattern 

• Feeling inadequate 

• Thoughts of harming yourself or the baby 

• Extreme worrying 

• Tiredness or fatigue 

• Excessive energy 

• Mood swings 

• Difficulty bonding with the baby  

Postpartum “blues”

It affects 60-80% of new mothers. It usually lasts from three days to two weeks. It can include: 

• Crying 

• Anxiety 

• Irritability 

• Changes in sleep patterns 

• Mood swings 

Anxiety during and after pregnancy: 

Symptoms: 

• Excessive worrying 

• Negative thoughts 

• Intrusive and racing thoughts 

• Changes in sleep and appetite 

• Increased energy

Depression during and after pregnancy 

It is the most common complication of childbirth. 15% of women can experience PPD after pregnancy. It can last for months up to two years. 

Symptoms: 

• Anger 

• Irritability 

• Sadness 

• Hopelessness

• Sense of inadequacy 

• Changes in sleep and appetite 

• Thoughts about harming yourself or the baby 

Perinatal Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

• Scary and intrusive thoughts including images of hurting their children

• Compulsive behaviors intended to relieve the anxiety induced by these repetitive and intrusive thoughts

• Obsessive behaviors can include checking, counting, cleanliness and hygiene

Perinatal Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder:

• Unexpected events during pregnancy or childbirth can be perceived as traumatic for some parents. 

• Childbirth can also be a traumatic reminder of other events, like sexual, physical or emotional abuse.

Paternal Postpartum Depression:

• Father's symptoms of anxiety and depression during the perinatal period can be very similar to a mother's symptoms.

• In some cases fathers tend more toward substance abuse or aggression.