Postpartum Depression Medication in Spokane, Washington

By We Level Up WA | Author Giselle Leung, PharmD, BCGP | Editorial Policy | Research Policy

Postpartum depression (PPD) is more than just the “baby blues.” It’s a serious mental health condition that affects many new mothers. Symptoms include persistent feelings of sadness, overwhelming anxiety, extreme fatigue, and difficulty bonding with your newborn.

For many new mothers, PPD creates a disconnect between the joy they expected to feel and the reality of their emotional state. You might experience intrusive thoughts, feelings of worthlessness, or even thoughts of harming yourself. These symptoms typically emerge within the first few weeks after childbirth but can appear anytime during the first year.

What makes PPD particularly challenging is its impact on both maternal well-being and family dynamics. When a mother struggles with PPD, the entire family unit feels the effects.

With proper treatment, including medication when appropriate, most women recover fully. At We Level Up Washington, we understand the complex nature of postpartum depression and offer comprehensive support tailored to your unique situation.

Understanding Postpartum Depression Medication

Medication plays a vital role in treating postpartum depression by helping to rebalance brain chemistry that’s often disrupted after childbirth. During pregnancy and after delivery, hormone levels fluctuate dramatically, affecting neurotransmitters, such as GABA, serotonin, and dopamine, that regulate relaxation, mood, and emotions.

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Learn more:

• Postpartum Depression Treatment
• How Long Does Postpartum Depression Last?
• Dual Diagnosis Treatment
• Anxiety Treatment
• Depression Treatment
• Mood Disorder Treatment

The most commonly prescribed medications for PPD include:

• Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): Medications like sertraline (Zoloft), fluoxetine (Prozac), and escitalopram (Lexapro) work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. These are often first-line treatments because they’re generally effective and have fewer side effects than other antidepressants.
• Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs): Medications such as venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta) affect both serotonin and norepinephrine levels, which can be helpful for women experiencing both depression and anxiety symptoms.
• Neurosteroids: These medications are similar to naturally occurring neurosteroids, such as allopregnanolone (AP), that work by binding to GABA receptors to influence GABA activity, which in turn, regulates brain activity. Brexanolone (Zulresso) was the first FDA-approved neurosteroid for postpartum depression, but is no longer available in the US. However, a new oral medication called Zuranolone (Zurzuvae) was approved recently by the FDA in 2023 and works similarly.

When considering medication for PPD, we take a personalized approach. Choosing the most effective medication depends on your specific symptoms, medical history, breastfeeding status, and personal preferences. What works wonderfully for one mother might not be the best choice for another.

For breastfeeding mothers, safety is understandably a top concern. The good news is that many antidepressants can be used safely during breastfeeding with minimal risk to the infant. Our psychiatrists carefully weigh the benefits of medication against potential risks to select options that allow you to continue breastfeeding if that’s your preference.

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Postpartum Depression Statistics

Depression is a common and serious illness. A CDC study shows that about 1 in 10 women in the United States reported symptoms that suggest they experienced an episode of major depression in the last year. While exact postpartum depression rates are unknown, there are some generally agreed-upon figures about the number of women who experience postpartum depression annually.

We Level Up Washington’s Approach to PPD Treatment

At We Level Up Washington, we recognize that postpartum depression requires more than just medication; it demands a comprehensive approach that addresses the physical, emotional, and social aspects of your experience as a new mother.

Our treatment philosophy centers on personalized care. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions because every mother’s journey through PPD is unique. When you come to us, we take the time to understand your specific symptoms, circumstances, and goals before developing a treatment plan.

What sets our approach apart is the seamless integration of medication management with therapeutic support. While medication helps rebalance brain chemistry, therapy addresses the psychological aspects of PPD, helping you develop coping strategies, process difficult emotions, and rebuild confidence in your parenting abilities.

Our team includes psychiatrists and therapists who specialize in maternal mental health. They stay current with the latest research and treatment approaches, ensuring you receive evidence-based care that meets the highest standards.

We also recognize the importance of including your support network throughout the process. With your permission, we can provide education and guidance to partners, family members, or close friends who want to support your recovery.

Throughout your treatment journey, we maintain open communication and adjust your care plan as needed. PPD recovery isn’t always linear. While there may be setbacks along the way, our team remains committed to supporting you through every phase of the process.

Medication Management Services

Our medication management process begins with a comprehensive assessment conducted by one of our experienced psychiatrists. During this initial evaluation, we’ll discuss your symptoms, medical history, previous treatments, and any concerns you might have about taking medication. For new mothers, we pay special attention to breastfeeding status and sleep patterns, as these factors influence medication choices.

Based on this assessment, your psychiatrist will recommend a medication plan tailored to your needs. We’ll explain the expected benefits, potential side effects, and timeline for improvement so you can make an informed decision about your treatment.

Once you begin taking medication, we implement structured monitoring to track your progress. You should be an active participant in your treatment decisions. Our psychiatrists take time to answer your questions, address concerns, and involve you in the decision-making.

For many mothers with PPD, medication isn’t a lifelong commitment. As your symptoms improve, we’ll discuss a timeline for potentially tapering off medication. This process is always gradual and carefully monitored to minimize the risk of symptom recurrence.

As you undergo treatment, we work with your other healthcare providers, including your OB/GYN and primary care physician, to ensure coordinated care. With your permission, we can share updates on your treatment progress and medication plan to keep everyone informed.

Our goal is to help you find relief from PPD symptoms while minimizing disruption to your life as a new mother. Whether you’re breastfeeding, returning to work, or managing other responsibilities, we’ll work with you to find a medication regimen that fits your lifestyle and supports your recovery.

Complementary Therapies and Support Options

While medication plays a crucial role in treating postpartum depression, research consistently shows that combining medication with therapy and support services leads to better outcomes. 

We offer several evidence-based therapeutic approaches that complement medication treatment:

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps you identify and challenge negative thought patterns that contribute to depression. For new mothers, these might include thoughts like “I’m a bad mother” or “I’ll never feel normal again.” CBT provides practical strategies to replace these thoughts with more balanced perspectives.

Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) focuses on improving relationships and communication skills, which is particularly valuable during the transition to parenthood. IPT helps you navigate changing roles, set realistic expectations, and effectively communicate your needs to partners and family members.

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy combines traditional cognitive therapy with mindfulness practices, teaching you to observe thoughts and feelings without judgment.

Beyond formal therapy, we offer structured support groups specifically for mothers experiencing postpartum mood disorders. These groups provide a safe space to connect with others facing similar challenges, reducing the isolation that often accompanies PPD. Many mothers find tremendous comfort in knowing they’re not alone in their experience.

What to Expect During Your Treatment Journey

Your path to recovery from postpartum depression begins with reaching out, perhaps the most challenging but courageous step. From there, your journey at We Level Up Washington typically follows these phases:

• Initial Consultation and Assessment: A comprehensive 60- to 90-minute evaluation of symptoms, medical history, and life circumstances, fostering an open and compassionate discussion.
• Treatment Planning: A personalized plan that may include medication, therapy, support groups, and self-care, designed to be manageable for new mothers.
• Beginning Treatment: Introduction to medication (if needed) with explanations of effects and side effects, alongside therapy sessions to develop coping strategies.
• Adjustment Period: Medication takes 2 to 4 weeks to reach full effectiveness with possible initial side effects; regular check-ins ensure support and adjustments.
• Ongoing Treatment and Monitoring: Regular appointments track progress and fine-tune treatment with visits becoming less frequent as symptoms improve.
• Maintenance and Prevention: A plan to prevent relapse, which may include ongoing medication, periodic therapy, and self-care practices for long-term well-being.

Remember that seeking help for PPD doesn’t mean you’ve failed as a mother. It demonstrates your commitment to being the best parent you can be for your child.

Benefits of Choosing We Level Up Washington

When you’re struggling with postpartum depression, finding the right treatment provider can make a significant difference in your recovery. At We Level Up Washington, our clinical team specializes in maternal mental health and perinatal mood disorders. We understand the biological, psychological, and social factors contributing to PPD and tailor our approach accordingly.

Our comprehensive, integrated care goes beyond treating symptoms. We focus on the whole person by combining medication management, therapy, support groups, and practical assistance. We provide a supportive, non-judgmental environment designed as a retreat rather than a clinical setting, offering spaces where mothers can bring their babies and openly discuss their emotions.

Recognizing the logistical challenges of new motherhood, we offer flexible treatment options, including early morning and evening appointments, telehealth services, and adaptable schedules. Our family-centered approach involves partners and family members during recovery, equipping them with education and guidance to support healing.

All of our treatments are based on the latest research in postpartum depression, ensuring evidence-based practices that evolve with new findings. Continuity of care is a priority, meaning patients work with the same core team throughout their recovery journey, building trust and eliminating the need to repeat their story. Additionally, we connect mothers with valuable community resources, such as childcare services, parenting classes, and practical assistance programs.

Start Your Path to Recovery Today

Postpartum depression can make each day feel overwhelming, but know that effective treatment is available and recovery is possible. The sooner you reach out for help, the sooner you can feel like yourself again and enjoy this precious time with your baby.

Taking that first step toward treatment takes courage, but you don’t have to face this challenge alone. At We Level Up Washington, we’re ready to walk alongside you on your journey to wellness.

Getting started is simple. Call our confidential helpline at 509-348-4077 to speak with a compassionate intake coordinator. Our team can often schedule initial assessments within the same week. If you’re in crisis, we offer expedited appointments to ensure you receive timely care.

With proper treatment, the overwhelming majority of women with PPD recover completely. Imagine waking up feeling refreshed rather than exhausted, finding joy in small moments with your baby, and facing each day with confidence rather than dread. This future is possible with the best support.

You deserve to experience the joy and fulfillment of motherhood. Let us help you reclaim this special time in your life. Your journey to recovery begins with a single step: reach out today.

Coping with Depression – Informative Video

Coping with depression can be challenging, but there are several strategies you can use to help manage your symptoms. Exercising, eating healthy, and getting enough sleep can help improve your mood. Talking to a therapist can also be beneficial as they can provide additional resources and help you process your thoughts and feelings. Lastly, knowing what triggers your depressive episodes can help you better prepare for them.

Frequently Asked Questions

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