Perinatal Depression

Perinatal depression, more than just the "baby blues", is a clinical diagnosis with symptoms that can occur anytime from conception up to a year after a woman has given birth.  As many as one in five women in BC experience significant depression related to pregnancy and childbirth. 

Risk Factors for Perinatal Depression:

• Family history of mental illness
• Previous history of depression, anxiety or psychosis
• Mood changes that last more than two weeks related to menstrual cycle
• Limited support systems (family, friends and partner)
• Any stressful life events in the last year (move, illness or loss)
• Chronic or acute health problem in woman or her immediate family
• Financial concerns/stresses
• Unrealistic expectations of motherhood
  

Symptoms of Perinatal Depression:

• Depressed mood or extreme sadness
• Crying spells for no apparent reason
• Guilty thoughts or feelings of worthlessness or helplessness
• Thoughts of harming self or baby, ending life or other frightening thoughts
• Feelings of inadequacy or resentment towards the baby
• Changes in sleep or appetite
• Restlessness, lack of control or lack of energy
• Difficulty concentrating
• Withdrawal from family, friends or social interactions

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your health care provider.

Physicians and midwives will screen for perinatal depression at 28-32 weeks.  If you have not had this screening talk to your health care provider. 

Contact your local public health unit for more information.

Beyond the Baby Blues

Contact us

The links below will take you to a services directory listing, which includes descriptions, contact details and related documents for our services.

Can't find what you're looking for? Email us at feedback@fraserhealth.ca.