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Pregnancy

Services and resources to help you during pregnancy, including information about mood and anxiety disorders.

Whether you’re thinking of having a baby, are pregnant, or caring for a child, there are services and resources to support you at each stage.

Before becoming pregnant

If you’re thinking of becoming pregnant it’s important to plan before you conceive. The healthier you are, the more likely you are to have a healthy baby.

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During pregnancy

Pregnancy is an exciting time but also a time of uncertainty as you wonder if you are doing everything you can to ensure that you have the healthiest baby possible.

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More information

This condition is also sometimes called postpartum depression. Most commonly, perinatal or postpartum mood and anxiety disorders can occur during pregnancy or in the first year after baby is born.

Many new parents experience mood swings and sudden emotional changes - also known as the "baby blues." The baby blues usually start 3 to 5 days after baby arrives, but last only about 2 weeks.

If your baby blues last longer than 2 weeks, you might have a perinatal or postpartum mood and anxiety disorder.

About 10 to 20% of pregnant women and new mothers will experience a perinatal mood disorder. It's not anyone's fault, but it's very important for you and your family to get help early. Parenting partners can also experience perinatal or postpartum mood disorders.

A perinatal or postpartum mood and anxiety disorder is a medical condition that requires assessment and treatment. It’s recommended that you visit your health care provider to get help.

  • Don't blame yourself
  • Ask for help
  • Take care of yourself
  • Get counselling
  • Consider medication as part of your treatment

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Postpartum psychosis

Postpartum psychosis is a mental health emergency. It’s a very rare but serious mental condition that threatens new mothers and their babies.

A person suffering from postpartum psychosis might:

  • Hear or see things that aren't there.
  • Think people are trying to harm the baby.
  • Feel confused or out of touch with reality.

When to get help

If you’re experiencing postpartum psychosis symptoms, get help now.

Call your doctor, go to the emergency department, or call 911. You need immediate help and should NOT be alone with your baby.

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