You may have pictured dreamy moments of your baby’s arrival, perhaps scenes filled with coos and sighs while rocking your bundle of joy. Of course, many new mothers enjoy this exact blissful state — but sadly, a few others live with a more unpleasant post-birth reality.
Instead of happy, contented feelings, emotions such as irritability, restlessness and even explosions of anger may intrude. This condition is called postpartum rage, and it may point to a case of depression, anxiety or another perinatal mood disorder.
Read on for more about postpartum rage so you’re able to recognize the signs and learn how this condition is diagnosed and treated.
What is postpartum rage?
Postpartum anger and rage are signs of postpartum depression, which is a serious medical condition that may affect up to one in nine new mothers. But these episodes of irritability and fury are often misunderstood and even overlooked in favor of more traditional depressive symptoms such as crying, disrupted sleep and anxiety.
In fact, a recent study recommended that symptoms of anger should be screened for at post-delivery checkups. The reason? This particular feeling plays a significant role in postpartum mood disturbances. Research also indicated that women who were both angry and depressed experienced depression for longer and at more intense levels.
Some experts believe that postpartum rage may also have a connection to bipolar disorder, and that someone with postpartum bipolar disorder may have stronger emotions during the manic state, which include rage and possible psychosis.
What are the symptoms of postpartum rage?
A woman with postpartum rage may have one or more of the following symptoms:
- Intense anger
- Extreme irritability
- Feelings of powerlessness
- Excessive crying
- Anxiety
- Difficulty sleeping
- Withdrawal from loved ones
- Negative feelings or little interest in her baby
- Loss of interest in daily activities
- Feelings of worthlessness
What causes postpartum rage?
Perinatal mood disorders like postpartum rage may have several contributing factors, including:
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- Hormonal changes. Progesterone and estrogen drop sharply in the postpartum period, which can impact a women's mood.
- Depression in the family. A history of depression, whether your own or that of a close family member, can increase your risk of a postpartum mood disorder.
- Wide-ranging emotions. Feelings of powerlessness, anxiety and doubt are just a few. Similarly, you may feel angry or guilty if your baby needs extra time in the hospital, has a physical impairment or illness, or you experienced a difficult birth.
- Fatigue. Not getting enough sleep or the necessary time to recover from labor and delivery can also color your moods.
- Life disruptions. Changes in work and home routines, struggles with your new job as a parent, a move, money trouble or relationship issues are also possible elements.
Postpartum rage can also be complicated by societal expectations. Women are often under a great deal of pressure to be the ‘perfect parent’ but in reality, they may be suffering from possible medical complications, sleep deprivation, the stress of taking care of a baby and possibly also working full time.
How is postpartum rage different from postpartum depression (PPD)?
Postpartum rage can be a symptom of postpartum depression and both are considered perinatal mood disorders. Women with post-birth anger issues and irritability may also be suffering from postpartum anxiety, which is an exaggerated fear or extreme worry that something is wrong. Racing thoughts, a sense of dread and constant agitation are a few common signs.
How is postpartum rage diagnosed?
Postpartum rage may be diagnosed at a well-baby visit or OB/GYN checkup, since postpartum mental health screening is now recommended for all new mothers by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).
Your doctor (or your baby’s pediatrician) should screen you to determine how you’re feeling and take note of any signs of anger, anxiety or depression. A blood test or other diagnostic might also be ordered to rule out whether something physical is affecting your mood.
How is postpartum rage treated?
Postpartum rage can be treated with a combination of psychotherapy, which involves talk sessions with a mental health professional, and antidepressants, usually selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Fortunately, most antidepressants can be taken while breastfeeding, since very little passes to your baby via breast milk.
Postpartum rage can be a serious and overwhelming condition, but if you're experiencing these symptoms, it's important to remember that you're not alone and help is available.
The following resources offer more information and support if you or someone you know may be suffering from postpartum depression:
- Office on Women's Health (800-994-9662)
- Postpartum Support International (800-944-4PPD)
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (800-950-NAMI)
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