Postpartum Anxiety: Everything You Need To Know About Parent's Reactions on Welcoming a New Baby

Postpartum anxiety refers to an enormous sense of worry that arises after giving birth or adopting a child.

Individuals undergoing postpartum anxiety (PPA) may find themselves distracted with imprudent concerns and in a perpetual state of anxiousness or alarm. If you or someone you know are aware of exhibiting signs of postpartum anxiety, it is essential to ask for assistance from a healthcare professional promptly.

Treatment options for postpartum anxiety surround behavioral therapy or the thought of medication.

Postpartum Anxiety in New Parents

PPA often manifests as heightened worrying, racing thoughts, and a sense of dread. According to a 2018 study, approximately 20% of postpartum individuals who have given birth undergo clinical anxiety. This condition affects both birthing parents and those who have adopted.

Explore further to grasp more about postpartum anxiety symptoms, causes, available treatment options, and its duration.

Feeling concern when caring for a newborn is normal, and some worry is considered adaptive. Anxiety can be a natural response aimed at protecting the baby, expressed through hyper-alertness.

However, tenacious or unreasonable fretting, such as a great fright of harm overtaking the baby when not held, may indicate postpartum anxiety. These signs become difficult when they impede daily life or functioning.

Postpartum Depression vs. Postpartum Anxiety

In distinction to postpartum depression, characterized by extreme sorrow or detachment in the newborn, postpartum anxiety primarily displays a weary and constant state of watchfulness.

Often referred to as the "hidden disorder," postpartum anxiety is less acknowledged and talked about than postpartum depression, though it may be more familiar.

It's interesting that postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety often exist together, with about half of those undergoing postpartum depression also having anxiety.

Read Also: Postpartum Recovery: How Long Does It Take to Heal After Giving Birth?

Symptoms, Causes, and Duration of Postpartum Anxiety

Similar to postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety may involve physical signs, such as imprudent weary, changes in eating and sleeping patterns, dizziness, feelings of dread, hot flashes, lack of concentration, nausea, racing thoughts, and a rapid heartbeat.

These signs typically appear between childbirth and the baby's first birthday, but in some instances, they may start prematurely, even during pregnancy.

Postpartum anxiety can stem from various triggers, including hormonal shifts, sleep deprivation, changes in relationships and responsibilities, societal expectations, and stressful life events.

Certain elements, such as a personal or family history of anxiety, signs of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and previous experiences with depression, can increase the risk of developing postpartum anxiety.

Unlike the temporary nature of the baby blues, postpartum anxiety typically does not resolve on its own. Seeking help is crucial if anxiety disrupts sleep or occupies thoughts continuously.

If left not treated, moderate to severe occurrence of postpartum anxiety can continue indefinitely, potentially leading to lifelong mental health.

Postpartum Anxiety Treatment

If engulfed by fret, it's important to tell your healthcare provider or pediatrician. Mild cases of perinatal disorders may be addressed with a combination of support and therapy.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a commended motion to change thinking and behavior patterns adding to anxiety.

For more severe cases, therapy, support, and medication may be commended, even for nursing mothers.

The decision to use medication is set on a case-by-case basis, prioritizing maternal mental health and the ability to care for and bond with the child.

Promptly asking for help is necessary, as taking care of oneself is ultimately taking care of the baby.

Related Article: Postpartum Anxiety: Understanding the Struggles and How to Help New Moms