Risk Factors for Pregnancy and Postpartum Depression
- Past episodes of depression or anxiety
- Family history of depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder or other psychological issues
- Recent life changes – moving, job change/loss, etc.
- Losing a close loved one
- Previous miscarriage, stillbirth or abortion
- Having high expectations of yourself or others
- Medical conditions, including thyroid problems, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), infertility, PMS or premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
- Unexpected health concerns with mom or baby
- Unmet expectations
- Traumatic or disappointing delivery
- Unplanned or difficult pregnancy
- Marital problems
- Lack of support
- History of abuse (physical, mental, emotional, verbal or sexual)
- History of drug or alcohol abuse
- Unresolved issues/tension with own mother
- Multiple children under the age of five
- Abrupt weaning of breastfeeding
