Postpartum depression affects up to 20 percent of new mothers
Having a child is one of life’s greatest joys. While for most, it is a time of great excitement and happiness, the transition to motherhood can prove to be challenging for some.
With childbirth comes dramatic hormone swings that can cause mothers to feel sad, irritable, and emotional. When you factor in sleep deprivation and the new responsibilities of motherhood, it is not surprising that nearly 70 percent of new moms experience the emotional roller coaster known as the “baby blues.” Symptoms commonly include mood swings, anxiety, crying spells, difficulty sleeping and a general sense of being overwhelmed. These symptoms typically last a few days to a week or two after giving birth.
But in instances when symptoms last longer than this, or are more severe in nature, mothers may be experiencing postpartum depression. Postpartum depression affects approximately 15 to 20 percent of women giving birth, making it the number one complication of pregnancy. It most commonly occurs in the first three months after delivery, but can develop up to a year after giving birth.
The symptoms of postpartum depression can include depressed mood or severe mood swings, difficulty bonding with your child, withdrawing from family and friends, intense irritability, feelings of worthlessness, shame, or guilt, panic attacks and thoughts of harming yourself or your baby. Mothers with a prior history of depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder are at higher risk to develop postpartum depression. Other risk factors include mothers with limited social support, mothers who have a child in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), and those who have experienced a recent emotional stressor, such as an illness, pregnancy complications or a financial strain.
The adjustment to motherhood can be very stressful as a new mother learns to balance caring for an infant and herself. It is important to realize that postpartum depression is fairly common and is treatable.

Dr. Kathleen Latouf
Allegheny Health Network (AHN) has a new program that specializes in the care and treatment of patients with postpartum depression, led by Sarah Homitsky, M.D., a physician who is board certified in pediatrics, adult psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry.
AHN’s Mother-Baby Intensive Outpatient Program was the first of its kind in the Pittsburgh area and one of only a few of its kind in the country. It is intended for women with more severe cases of postpartum depression, mood and anxiety disorders, and focuses on improving the mother-baby connection. Moms are encouraged to bring their baby, as well as other family members, to appointments.
The AHN staff works with mothers to improve their communication and problem-solving skills, and teaches them coping mechanisms for stress. The goal throughout is to help new moms safely, effectively and compassionately overcome their postpartum depression and, in the process, strengthen the crucial bond between mother and child.
Each patient’s treatment plan is tailored to her needs. Treatment for postpartum depression may include a combination of medication, comprehensive psychological therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and educational classes to give new moms the confidence they need to care for their infant.
If you are pregnant and have a history of depression or anxiety, speak to your doctor about monitoring your symptoms during your pregnancy.
If you or a loved one is suffering from symptoms of postpartum depression, please discuss your concerns with your doctor. If you fear you are in immediate danger, call 911 or 1-800-273-8255. You can also call the Washington County Crisis Center at 724-225-3584. For further information regarding AHN’s Postpartum Depression Program, call 412-578-4030.
Dr. Kathleen Latouf is a board certified emergency physician. She serves as the medical director of the Canonsburg Hospital Emergency Department.