Postpartum anxiety is a relatively common condition that occurs after a person gives birth.
There is a difference between postpartum anxiety and worrying.
All new parents will experience worries about their baby, which is a normal part of the process.
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Postpartum anxiety signs include:
How Common Is Postpartum Anxiety?
While not as common aspostpartum depression, postpartum anxiety can affect as many as 14% of people.
What Causes Postpartum Anxiety?
Other medications that may be prescribed includeanxiolytic drugs(drugs that treat anxiety) such as lorazepam and clonazepam.
These are typically reserved for quick relief, while SSRIs take effect long-term.
Your healthcare provider may also have information on local resources.
Prenatal Anxiety
Prenatal anxiety is another common anxiety disorder that occurs in expecting parents.
However, postpartum depression affects more people.
While these conditions can be similar, they typically present with different symptoms.
That means people will experience both sets of symptoms, making coping more difficult.
Research shows that as many as 19.9% of people with postpartum depression also experience postpartum anxiety symptoms.
The good news is that treatment and support can make managing the condition more effective.
If you suspect you are experiencing postpartum anxiety, reach out to your healthcare provider for assistance.
Postpartumdepression.org.What is postpartum anxiety?
MGH Center for Women’s Health.Screening for perinatal anxiety using PASS - The perinatal anxiety screening scale.
Rochester Regional Health.Treating postpartum anxiety.
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.Anxiety and pregnancy.
2015;186:18-25. doi: 10.1016/j.jad.2015.07.012
National Institute of Mental Health.Perinatal depression.
Harvard Health Publishing Harvard Medical School.How can you manage anxiety during pregnancy?
MGH Center for Women’s Mental Health.Is it postpartum depression or postpartum anxiety?
What’s the difference?
