Postpartum Period

Emotional fluctuations are common and expected, and may persist for several weeks. However, it can also evolve to PPMAD
Postpartum depression: involves a more major depressive episode, typically about four or more weeks after delivery.
**Women of every culture, age, income level, and race can develop PMADs. **
Therapeutic intervention is considered effective treatment, and for many, potentially coupled with medication when indicated.

Postpartum depression has numerous effects: * Mother-infant interaction. * Risk of additional medical and psychological disorders. * Child(ren)’s physical health and cognitive development.
Support of the partner can help lower the incidence of postpartum depression.
Treatable and Temporary with correct therapeutic intervention, education, med consult, support
Plan - Pre-empt issues and concerns; especially if known risks or prior history of mental illness

Dads, non-birthing mothers, or partners, and other helpers also need support and connection.
As many as 1 in 10 report depressive symptoms
PPD can be harder to diagnose in males. Male postpartum depression symptoms may also include: * Sadness, irritability, agitation, and/or anger * Feelings of worthlessness * Loss of interest in sex or activities that used to bring them joy * Engagement in risky behaviors like abusing alcohol or drugs, gambling * Shortness of breath * Heart palpitations * “Overworking”, distracting self with work related tasks * Father’s postpartum reaction is likely improved if he has taken childbirth classes and is an active participant in caring for the baby.

Non-gestational parents * At mercy of health care provider * Attachment concerns * Desire for social recognition * Identity issues * Lack of support groups * Postpartum depression * Data mixed. * Some added protective factors (higher life satisfaction among gay men, less gender-role conforming postpartum); additional risk factors (biases during prenatal and postnatal care, parental leave) * Community support critical, Doula support, legal support for adoption and surrogacy