What is Postpartum Anxiety Disorder?
New Mothers Can Be Anxious Following a Baby's Birth
Oct 6, 2009
Having a new baby can be a life changing experience for a woman. Whether this is a first baby or a fifth, the hormonal fluctuations and disruptions of routines can take some getting used to.
Many new mothers may feel (or may be told) that it’s normal to feel anxious after the birth of a new baby. If these feelings of anxiousness continue beyond the first few weeks, however, these feelings of anxiety may be attributed to postpartum anxiety.
What is Postpartum Anxiety?
While anxiety is a normal part of human life, anxiety disorders, including postpartum anxiety, differ from normal anxiety in that the feelings of anxiety, such as a pounding heart, or sense of dread, are heightened, more intense and prolonged.
While it’s normal and even typical for new mothers to experience some level of anxiety, some mothers may experience excessive worry becoming obsessively concerned about minor problems. These mothers may be unable to relax, even when given an opportunity to do so, and may be unable to bond with or enjoy their babies.
Postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), is also a facet of postpartum anxiety, which can lead to thoughts of harming oneself or the baby. Many women who experience these thoughts will recognize that they are abnormal, and these moms love their babies intensely, and would never consciously act upon the OCD-related urges. Experiencing these thoughts, however, can lead to a heightened sense of anxiety and loss of control.
Why does Postpartum Anxiety go Undiagnosed?
Most obstetricians are trained to notice symptoms of postpartum depression. A new mother is often screened at her post-birth check up for symptoms of depression, thoughts of suicide, or thoughts of harming herself or her babies. Mothers are rarely screened, however, for thoughts of worry or anxiety surrounding their babies. In fact, many new mothers may be assured that some level of anxiety around their baby and baby’s well being is normal and will pass with time.
According to Dr. Michael Marcus, a psychiatrist who assists new mothers, “After a certain period of time, we expect [the new mother] to begin to feel confident with the baby and the situation, if that’s not happening, though, then there is something wrong.”
Many women who experience thoughts of harming themselves or their baby may also be unwilling to admit that these feelings exist. Feeling that they would never act on them, they may be too ashamed to tell someone, or may fear the removal of their baby from their home. Without contact with a professional who deals with these issues, however, it can take time, even years, for these thoughts and feelings to subside.
Symptoms of Postpartum Anxiety Disorder
If a new mother is experiencing postpartum anxiety, she may be dealing with the following:
- Being so anxious that she is unable to adequately care for herself or the baby
- Being so afraid of hurting herself or the baby, even accidentally, that she feels she may be unable to keep from doing so
- Is so anxious that she is unable to eat or sleep
- Is experiencing compulsive behaviors that may be harmful to the baby
If a new mother believes that she is suffering from postpartum anxiety disorder, it is important to seek professional help. Contacting the obstetrician, or primary care physician is a good first step, as they can often refer mothers to therapists or psychiatrists who specialize in postpartum anxiety, or they may put new moms in touch with mentor mothers who may be able to assist with more minor cases.
If these resources are not available, or if the mother or baby is in immediate danger, the emergency room at the local hospital can assess the situation and get the new mother the help that is needed. While some women may feel embarrassed or that they cannot admit to anyone about the thoughts or feelings they are having, particularly if they involve harming the baby, there is help available and there are trained professionals who understand and will not judge.
Postpartum anxiety affects 4% to 6% off all mothers after giving birth, but is one of the least talked about postpartum disorders. Recognizing the symptoms, knowing that intense anxiety surrounding the baby is not normal, and getting help for new mothers who may be experiencing these symptoms are the first steps needed to be taken to help all new mothers adjust and enjoy their babies.
Sources:
- Dr. Michael Marcus, MD
- Linda Sebastian – Postpartum Anxiety Disorders.
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