After birth, we’re told to be vigilant about the signs of postpartum depression, but many don’t know that postpartum mood disorder can occur up to 18 months (or more) after birth.
Welcoming a new baby into the family can be one of the happiest moments imaginable. However, for many mothers, the reality of the situation ends up being very far from it.
Postpartum depression is a condition that affects about 1 in 7 womenand each mother’s experience is likely to be very different from the next.
Editor’s note: this article is for informational purposes and not medical advice. If you believe you or someone you know is struggling with postpartum depression, please seek proper medical care and treatment. This article is not intended to diagnose postpartum depression.
You may have thought, “can postpartum depression be delayed?” The answer is yes, as delayed PPD can occur for many months After giving birth.
Since the “thickness” of the postpartum period is usually considered 6 to 8 weeks after birth, it Delayed onset of postpartum depression can be a surprise.
This is why it helps to be as prepared as possible and have resources in case this is something you or a loved one has experienced.
Let’s explore what delayed postpartum depression is, its signs to look out for, and what you can do to alleviate its symptoms.
How long can you get postpartum depression?
There is no one-size-fits-all timeline when it comes to postpartum depression.
While some women may begin experiencing symptoms within the first few weeks after giving birth, others they may not be noticed until months later. Delayed onset can be confusing and frustrating, especially for mothers who think they’ve made it through the postpartum period without developing PPD.
It’s important to know that just because you may have delayed onset postpartum depression, it doesn’t mean your experience is any less valid or deserving of unwavering support.
It’s important to be prepared and aware of that Postpartum depression can develop up to 18 months after giving birth and sometimes it’s even later.
Hormones, the stress of modern parenting, lack of sleep, and more can cause PMADs later in the postpartum period.
Read next: Your Postpartum Hormone Timeline
If you are a mother, especially for the first time, and you are worried about the possibility of having postpartum depression, it is it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of PMADs so you can get help as soon as possible – no matter how far postpartum you are.
Can you delay PPD?
Postpartum depression doesn’t have to come right after birth for it to happen.
PPD can be delayed – not uncommon for mothers start noticing symptoms weeks or months later having their baby.
As mentioned above, this delay can be caused by factors other than hormonal fluctuations, such as lack of sleep, physical changes in your body that you are used to, and of course, having a new child to care for.
It’s important to know that just because you can have delayed onset postpartum depression, it doesn’t mean your experience is any less valid or worthy of uninterrupted support.
You feel it the first symptoms of PPD weeks or months down the line, know that you are not alone, and that there are resources out there to help you.
If you are concerned about the possibility of postpartum depression, don’t hesitate to talk to your healthcare provider or a mental health professional so you can better understand your symptoms, receive support, and connect to more resources in your community.
Delayed signs of postpartum depression
It can be useful to know the signs of delayed postpartum depression to watch out so you don’t go completely blind if it starts creeping up on you.
The arrival of a new baby can bring on a range of emotions as your daily routine adjusts, which can understandably affect your mental health.
Delayed postpartum depression can include feelings of:
- Sadness
- Hopelessness
- Satisfied
- Anxiety
- Irritability
These feelings can remain regardless, even after weeks or months after giving birth. If this is you, you may be experiencing delayed postpartum depression.
Some other common signs of delayed PPD include:
- A lack of interest in bonding with your baby
- Feeling generally disconnected or numb
- Withdrawal from loved ones
- Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
- Severe changes in appetite
- Headache and stomach ache
If you notice any of these symptoms in yourself in the months after giving birth, you know you’re not alone, and it doesn’t mean you’re an incredible mother.
Your symptoms can be managed with proper support and resources, that’s why it helps contact a trusted mental health professional or health care provider if you are experiencing delayed postpartum depression.
What to do to help delayed PPD
If you or someone you know is experiencing delayed PPD, there are always things you can do to help.
First and foremost, Seeking help from a healthcare provider or mental health professional is important the moment you suspect something is wrong. They can help you make a plan for managing your symptoms and provide support and appropriate resources.
Some Self-care skills can help ease some of the symptoms of delayed postpartum depression, such as getting enough sleep, eating a healthy, balanced diet, and engaging in regular physical activity once you’re well enough to do so.
It is also very important take time for yourself and engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment, whatever that is. Spending time with friends or family, participating in your favorite hobbies, or relaxing the way you want are all great ways to get more in touch with yourself.
If you can, ask for help with child care or household from loved ones, or reach out to talk to someone close to you.
Prioritizing your well-being is how you can manifest in other ways that you might want to, so take the time you need for yourself if you experience delayed PPD.
Final thoughts on postpartum mental health and delayed PPD
So, can postpartum depression be delayed? We now know that, yes, it really can.
PPD may be delayed a difficult situation faced by parents, but it is important to know that it is possible to manage and overcome.
Remember, be careful your mental health is just as important as your physical health, especially in this transitional period. By reaching out for professional help, you can find the way to a brighter and healthier future for you and your family.
You are not alone in what you are going through, and it is never too late to get the help you need.
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