Postpartum Mood Disorders (PPMDs) are some of the most common complications after childbirth.  Baby blues is the mildest of the mood disorders and affects up to 80% of new mothers within the first two weeks after having a baby.  The symptoms usually occur within the first 3-5 days and include crying, feeling irritable or frustrated, problems concentrating, and changes in sleep. 

Postpartum Depression affects 10-15% of new mothers. It can occur early on, or anytime in the first year after having a baby.  A PPMD may be hard for a mother to see in herself.  Family or close friends may see changes in her that need to be talked about.  Some of these changes may include frequent crying, problem sleeping, feeling overwhelmed or anxious, and changes in appetite. PPMDs can lead to relationship problems, especially with her partner and children. PPMDs can be treated; therefore, it's important for a mother to discuss her concerns with her doctor or nurse practitioner to find the best treatment plan. Medications and counselling may be options.

 As a result of this research, nurses working in the HBHC program screen new moms for PPD using a short 10 question tool known as the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Shortly after the birth of a baby, a Public Health Nurse calls and/or visits the new mom to answer questions about the care of the new baby.  At this time, the nurse assesses the mom for signs of a PPMD.  Presently, these mothers receive support from the HBHC program, and other community services as needed. However, Windsor and Essex County have a limited number of supports for moms at risk of developing PPD 

In an effort to try to offer more services in our community, the Health Unit is excited to offer “Mothers Supporting Mothers”, a new service of the HBHC program.  “Mothers Supporting Mothers” is a telephone peer support program. Research has shown that a mother who has experienced and recovered from a PPMD is a valuable support to new moms who are at risk for developing this condition.  “Mothers Supporting Mothers” believes that telephone-based peer support from other moms in the community is a highly effective, caring way to address this condition.

If you have recovered from a PPMD and have some extra time to support a mother in need, please think about becoming a telephone support volunteer for “Mothers Supporting Mothers”. A small amount of time on your part may make a world of difference for a new mother and her family.  Information sessions will be held in May!  To learn more about becoming a volunteer, call 519-258-2146 ext. 1301.

In the spring of 2004, the nurses in the Healthy Babies Healthy Children (HBHC) program took part in a research study led by Dr. Cindy-Lee Dennis of the University of Toronto. The purpose of the study was to assess the effect of peer “mother to mother” support in the prevention of Postpartum Depression (PPD) among mothers identified as high risk. The results showed less chance of developing PPD when a mom had the support of a peer. The research also showed that assessing mothers in the 4-12 weeks  after having a baby was important for identifying those mothers who were at risk of developing a PPMD. 

For those who attended the information session, please fill out the application form.