What are the common signs and symptoms of postpartum anxiety?

Common symptoms include racing heart, shortness of breath, restlessness, muscle tension, fatigue, intrusive thoughts, excessive worry about your baby’s safety, irritability, and trouble sleeping even when the baby sleeps.

When does postpartum anxiety usually appear?

Postpartum anxiety can appear anytime within the first year after childbirth. It may start within the first two weeks, persist for months, or emerge later as life changes like returning to work or sleep training begin.

What causes postpartum anxiety?

Causes may include hormonal changes after delivery, sleep deprivation, major life adjustments, personal or family history of anxiety or depression, birth complications, and environmental stressors such as limited support or financial pressure.

When should I see a specialist for postpartum anxiety?

You should reach out if your anxiety lasts more than two weeks, interferes with daily routines or bonding, prevents sleep, triggers panic attacks, or causes intrusive thoughts. Early treatment can speed recovery.

What are the treatment options for postpartum anxiety?

Treatment often includes therapy such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), mindfulness, and sometimes safe medication. Holistic approaches like exercise, nutrition, and relaxation techniques may also help.

Is it safe to take medication for postpartum anxiety while breastfeeding?

Yes, many SSRIs and short-term anti-anxiety medications are considered safe while breastfeeding. Your psychiatrist will carefully choose options that balance your recovery needs with breastfeeding goals.

What happens if postpartum anxiety is left untreated?

Untreated postpartum anxiety can disrupt sleep, self-care, bonding, and even impact your baby’s development. It may also increase the risk of postpartum depression or OCD, making early support vital.

How does living in San Francisco affect postpartum anxiety?

The city’s fast-paced lifestyle, high expectations, and urban challenges can heighten stress for new mothers. Accessing local professional help and community support can ease this transition.

What kind of support network can help with recovery?

Support networks may include partners, family, friends, new-mom groups, therapists trained in perinatal care, and online communities. Having a strong support circle promotes faster healing.

Postpartum Anxiety: Signs, Timeline & When to Reach Out for Help

Sep 19

Written By Christine Bilbrey

Welcoming a new baby is one of life’s most meaningful milestones — but it can also be surprisingly overwhelming. If you’re a new mom in San Francisco and find yourself constantly worried, restless, or tense about your baby’s safety, you’re far from alone.

Research shows that postpartum anxiety affects up to 15% of new mothers. The good news: with the right support, you can recover and fully enjoy this precious stage of motherhood.

At Christine Bilbrey, MD, PC we understand how becoming a parent while keeping pace with San Francisco’s fast-moving lifestyle can leave you feeling exhausted or on edge. Whether you live near the Mission District, Noe Valley, or the Sunset, you deserve compassionate care tailored to your journey.

What Is Postpartum Anxiety?

Postpartum anxiety is more than the usual worries most new parents experience. It’s a real, treatable condition marked by persistent, excessive fears that interfere with daily life or bonding with your baby.

While a certain level of concern is normal, postpartum anxiety can make it difficult to rest, focus, or trust yourself. The city’s high-energy culture and expectations can sometimes heighten these feelings — which is why timely, professional support matters.

Common Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms can be physical, emotional, or behavioural. You may experience only a few or many.

Physical signs

Racing heart or palpitations
Shortness of breath or chest tightness
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Muscle tension in your neck and shoulders
Trouble falling or staying asleep, even when baby sleeps
Persistent fatigue beyond typical “new-mom tiredness”
Stomach upset or nausea

Emotional & mental signs

Constant worry about your baby’s health or safety
Intrusive or scary thoughts about harm coming to your baby
Fear of being alone with your baby
An ongoing sense of dread or impending doom
Difficulty focusing or making decisions
Feeling on edge or irritable

Behavioral changes

Avoiding places or activities due to worry
Struggling to leave baby with anyone, even trusted relatives
Repeatedly checking if baby is breathing or warm enough
Excessive internet research about baby health
Withdrawing from social connections

When Does It Usually Appear?

Unlike the “baby blues,” which fade within two weeks of delivery, postpartum anxiety can arise at several stages:

0–2 weeks after birth: Hormonal shifts and sleep loss may spark intense worry.
2–12 weeks: Many moms notice persistent anxiety as the adrenaline of birth settles and 24/7 caregiving begins.
3–12 months: Anxiety can emerge or increase as you return to work, tackle sleep training, or face milestones.
Beyond a year: Some women continue to feel anxious into toddlerhood, especially during major changes or planning another pregnancy.

Why Postpartum Anxiety Happens?

Feeling anxious doesn’t make you weak or a “bad mom.” Several factors often combine:

Hormonal shifts after delivery
Sleep deprivation, which heightens stress responses
Life changes in identity, relationships, and routines
Personal history of anxiety, depression, or OCD
Birth complications or NICU stays
Social and environmental stress, like limited support or financial pressure

When to See a Specialist

Reach out if anxiety:

Lasts more than two weeks
Interferes with daily routines or bonding
Keeps you awake even when baby sleeps
Triggers panic attacks or intense physical symptoms
Involves scary, unwanted thoughts
Leaves you feeling detached from your baby
Causes friends or family to worry about you

Treatment Options That Work

Postpartum anxiety is highly treatable. At Christine Bilbrey, MD, PC we we personalize your care, combining therapy, practical tools, and — if needed — safe medication.

Therapy Approaches

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps you notice and reframe anxious thoughts, and develop calm responses.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Strengthens communication and relationships during this life transition.
Mindfulness & Grounding Techniques: Teach you to stay present and soothe racing thoughts.

Medication

For moderate or severe anxiety, medication can be helpful. Many SSRIs are considered safe while breastfeeding. Short-term medicines for panic may also be used under careful supervision. Your plan will always balance benefits with breastfeeding goals.

Holistic Support

Exercise, nutrition, omega-3 supplements, breathing exercises, and guided relaxation may complement therapy or medication. Always check with your provider first.

What Happens if It’s Left Untreated?

Without support, postpartum anxiety can:

Disrupt sleep and self-care
Hinder bonding and breastfeeding
Impact your baby’s development through stress exposure
Increase the risk of postpartum depression or OCD

Creating Your Support Network

Healing is easier with a strong team around you:

Partners, relatives, or friends who understand your needs
New-mom meetups or parent circles
Therapists and psychiatrists trained in perinatal care
Online peer groups for round-the-clock encouragement

Take the First Step Toward Calm

If you recognize yourself in these signs, remember: postpartum anxiety is temporary and treatable. The sooner you reach out, the sooner you can reclaim peace of mind and enjoy bonding with your little one.

At Christine Bilbrey, MD, PC we’ve streamlined scheduling so you can get help without extra stress. Whether you’re in Russian Hill, the Sunset District, or anywhere in the Bay Area, compassionate care is only a phone call away.

Schedule your consultation with Christine Bilbrey, MD, PC and start your path to recovery. With personalized treatment and a supportive team, you can move beyond worry and embrace the confidence and joy you deserve as a new mother.

FAQs

How do I know if what I’m feeling is postpartum anxiety or just normal new-mom worry?

It’s normal to feel protective or nervous after birth — but postpartum anxiety goes beyond typical concern. If your worry feels constant, keeps you from sleeping, or makes daily tasks harder, it may be postpartum anxiety. A mental-health professional can help you understand what’s happening and create a personalized care plan.

Can postpartum anxiety appear months after giving birth?

Yes. While many women notice symptoms in the first few weeks, postpartum anxiety can also appear several months — or even up to a year — after delivery. It’s never too late to seek support and start feeling better.

What if I’m too busy or tired to attend in-person therapy sessions?

Dr. Bilbrey offers telehealth psychiatry and therapy throughout California, allowing you to connect from home — even during nap time. Virtual care ensures new mothers receive professional support without added stress or travel.

How can I support a loved one struggling with postpartum anxiety?

Listen without judgment, offer practical help (like babysitting or meals), and gently encourage them to seek professional care. Even small acts of understanding can make a significant difference in recovery.

When should I reach out for professional help?

If anxiety has lasted more than two weeks, disrupted your sleep, caused panic, or interfered with bonding with your baby — it’s time to talk to a professional. Reaching out early helps you recover faster and feel more confident in motherhood.

Christine Bilbrey