Signs and Symptoms

Usually appears after the baby is born, but can emerge during pregnancy.

• Mild depression, anxiety, crying lasting up to two weeks.

​Postpartum Depression

• Sad mood, irritability, hopelessness.  Symptoms are more severe and longer lasting than Baby Blues.

​Postpartum Panic Disorder

• Excessive worry and fears

• Anxiety, panic attacks

​Postpartum OCD

• Repetitive, disturbing thoughts

• Compulsive behaviors to reduce the thoughts

• Horror about having those thoughts

​Postpartum Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

• Recurring nightmares, excessive anxiety, reliving of past traumatic events

​Postpartum Psychosis

• Delusions and hallucinations that require immediate medical attention

Risk Factors

If you recognize any of the following symptoms, you are at higher risk for developing perinatal adjustment problems.

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• Previous experience with postpartum depression
• Depression or anxiety during pregnancy.
• Personal or family history of depression/anxiety
• Abrupt weaning.
• Social isolation or poor support
• History of premenstrual syndrome. (PMS)
• Mood changes while taking birth control pill or fertility medication
• Thyroid dysfunction
• History of infertility
• History of fetal loss

Michelle Lacy

480-220-0582​

1166 E. Warner Rd.  Ste. 218

Gilbert AZ 85296

Located between Lindsey and Val Vista

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What it is...

•  Women's emotional changes during pregnancy

•  Usually during the first year after the baby is born

•  Symptoms can very from mild to severe.

What mothers think and feel...

•  "I feel like running away."

•  "I'm a rotten mother."

•  "I feel like I'm going crazy."

•  "I think of hurting myself or the baby."

Perinatal Adjustment Symptoms Are Treatable

Remember....

• You are not alone!

• You are not to blame!

• ​You will be well!

Michelle Lacy, MA, LPC 

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