Peripartum anxiety refers to clinically significant anxiety that occurs during pregnancy (prenatal) or in the postpartum period. It includes a range of symptoms such as:

• Excessive worry or fear, often about the baby’s health or safety

• Difficulty relaxing or feeling “on edge” most of the time

• Racing thoughts or a constant sense of dread

• Trouble sleeping, even when the baby is asleep

• Physical symptoms like a racing heart, muscle tension, or nausea

This type of anxiety can show up on its own or alongside depression. It can also take several forms such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive symptoms, or specific phobias (like fear of childbirth or health-related fears about the baby).

Peripartum depression refers to depression occurring during pregnancy or after childbirth. The use of the term peripartum recognizes that depression associated with having a baby often begins during pregnancy.

Peripartum depression is a serious, but treatable medical illness involving feelings of extreme sadness, indifference and/or anxiety, as well as changes in energy, sleep, and appetite. It carries risks for the mother and child.

An estimated one in seven women experiences peripartum depression.

Pregnancy and the period after delivery can be a particularly vulnerable time for women. Mothers often experience immense biological, emotional, financial, and social changes during this time. Some women can be at an increased risk for developing mental health problems, particularly depression and anxiety.

Up to 70 percent of all new mothers experience the “baby blues,” a short-lasting condition that does not interfere with daily activities and does not require medical attention. Symptoms of this emotional condition may include crying for no reason, irritability, restlessness, and anxiety. These symptoms last a week or two and generally resolve on their own without treatment.

Peripartum depression is different from the “baby blues” in that it is emotionally and physically debilitating and may continue for months or more. Getting treatment is important for both the mother and the child.

Peripartum OCD is a form of obsessive-compulsive disorder that occurs during pregnancy or after childbirth. It is characterized by intrusive, unwanted thoughts—often related to the baby’s safety, health, or the parent’s ability to care for them—along with repetitive behaviors or mental rituals aimed at reducing anxiety. For example, a parent might repeatedly check on the baby, excessively clean, or mentally review routines to prevent harm. These symptoms can be highly distressing and interfere with daily life and bonding.

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a more serious form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). PMS causes bloating, headaches, and breast tenderness a week or two before your period.

With PMDD, you might have PMS symptoms along with extreme irritability, anxiety, or depression. These symptoms improve within a few days after your period starts, but they can be severe enough to interfere with your life.

PMDD symptoms include:

• Anger or irritability.

• Anxiety and panic attacks.

• Depression.

• Difficulty concentrating.

• Fatigue and low energy.

• Food cravings or binge eating.

• Insomnia.

• Mood swings.

Perimenopause is the transitional phase leading up to menopause, marked by fluctuating hormone levels that can affect both physical and mental health.

Women may experience irregular periods, hot flashes, sleep disturbances, mood swings, anxiety, and changes in memory or concentration.

These symptoms can impact daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. Awareness and management strategies, including lifestyle adjustments, therapy, and, when appropriate, medical treatments, can help ease the transition and support mental and physical health during this stage.

Please visit Olea Women’s Health for Dr. Simone’s practice focused on women in midlife.