Postpartum Depression

There is no question that new mothers have a lot on their plate emotionally, from the joy and excitement that a new birth brings to the equal amount of anxiety over the child’s wellbeing and questions of the future. However, one thing that most moms, and indeed, most families, don’t count on having to combat is depression.

Swept up in the drama of this incredible event, it is easy for others to overlook the “baby blues” that nearly 80% of mothers experience in some form. There is no question that having a child affects a woman’s hormone levels and psychological chemistry, with potential symptoms of tearfulness, irritability, or being “on edge” usually peaking between the 3rd and 5th days following delivery.

Recognizing the Dangers

For some women (roughly 10-20%), these feelings never fully subside, but develop over the course of months into a much deeper sense of sadness. Mothers in this condition often find that they are unable to feel joy partaking in the child’s upbringing, and may experience changes in appetite, unreasonable guilt, and even suicidal thoughts.

Postpartum depression interferes with the mother’s ability and desire to care for her infant, for whom her feelings may veer widely between thoughts of harm and an obsessive desire not to abandon him or her. In extreme cases, postpartum psychosis can set in, usually within three weeks of giving birth. A mother in this state is much more likely to hurt herself, her infant, or both, and usually experiences hallucinations, paranoia, and similar psychotic symptoms.

Those with a family or personal history of mental illness are at a greater risk for postpartum depression, but external factors can play a major role as well. Recent studies have suggested a link between traumatic birth experiences and this serious condition.

Contact Us

If you or someone you love has felt the effects of postpartum depression and you believe a healthcare provider’s negligent actions may have played a role, you deserve to know your legal options. Contact the experienced Philadelphia birth injury lawyers of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C., by calling 215-238-1130.