Postpartum Depression & Anxiety

Postpartum depression after childbirth affects up to 20% of women in the United States. If you struggle with sadness, anxious mood, inability to sleep, or other symptoms of depression/anxiety after having a baby, Rachel Frederick, PA-C, at VirtualMed Iowa, can help. The most important way to identify these needs is screening. PSI recommends screening for anxiety and depression at several intervals during the prenatal and postpartum period. The current barrier to these screenings is access to care or access to knowledgeable providers. At VirtualMed Iowa, we want to bridge that gap. We want to empower women to identify their needs in a timely, convenient fashion so that they can get the care they need. Schedule online to review your concerns and get appropriate screening, treatment, and referral if needed.

What is postpartum depression/anxiety?

Postpartum depression affects some women after they deliver a baby. It’s natural to experience the baby blues and feel sad and exhausted for the first few days because of hormonal changes and the effort involved in giving birth. However, it’s not normal to experience more profound or prolonged depression.

If you feel sad, hopeless, and empty for more than two weeks after your baby’s birth, you likely have postpartum depression. Postpartum anxiety makes you feel worried and on edge all the time. Women often develop postpartum depression and anxiety at the same time.

You may feel ashamed about feeling anxious or depressed at what should be one of life’s happiest times. But you’re not alone because postpartum depression/anxiety is a widespread problem. If depression affects your ability to care for yourself and your new baby, or anxiety is overwhelming you, Rachel at VirtualMed Iowa can help.

What symptoms might postpartum depression/anxiety cause?

Postpartum depression affects your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. You may experience some or all of the following:

• Despair and hopelessness
• Guilt and shame
• Moodiness
• Irritability
• Withdrawal from friends and family
• Low energy and fatigue
• Frequent crying
• Trouble sleeping
• Difficulties bonding with your baby

Postpartum anxiety symptoms include severe stress, sleep problems, appetite changes, and irrational fears that occupy your mind almost constantly. The worry may become so overwhelming that you can’t think clearly.

Severe postpartum depression can cause thoughts of self-harm or of harming your baby. If you also suffer from hallucinations and delusions, you could have postpartum psychosis.

What happens at my postpartum depression/anxiety consultation?

At your postpartum depression/anxiety consultation, Rachel will spend most of the visit listening to your concerns. Be sure to write down any concerns your significant other or family members have mentioned as well. She will review your past medical history and perform screenings as appropriate.

How is postpartum depression/anxiety treated?

Women with postpartum depression/anxiety typically benefit from therapy, medication management, and close follow-up.

Effective and timely care is important not only for you but for your baby and family at home.

To arrange a postpartum depression/anxiety evaluation, call VirtualMed Iowa or schedule a telehealth appointment online today.