MCH Resources

Postpartum Depression

You don’t have to be a first-time parent for the challenges and changes associated with parenthood to have an effect on you. For example, many mothers who are pregnant or who have recently given birth to a newborn may experience depression due to a variety of reasons. Fortunately, for mothers or mothers-to-be who reside in Montgomery County, there is free help. Several local organizations have joined forces to form what is known as Montgomery County’s  Maternal and Early Childhood Consortium (MECC).

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), postpartum depression is experienced by up to 1 in 7 women. Here are a few signs and symptoms to look for:

  • Loss of pleasure or interest in things you use to enjoy
  • Change in appetite
  • Anxiety – all or most of the time
  • Sadness, crying uncontrollably
  • Misery
  • Sleeping too much or very little
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Little interest in the baby

To get help, talk to someone such as your doctor or simply fill out the referral form online or call 1-888-404-0620.

Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is safe and free and cannot be replicated by any formula. The CDC recommends that infants breastfeed until 6 months of age. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) also supports breastfeeding because it benefits both the mother and child.

Breastfeeding Benefits Baby:

  • Assists with brain development
  • Strengthens the infant’s immune system
  • Easy to digest (infants have decreased bowel and G.I issues)
  • Reduces the risk of asthma, obesity, diabetes, ear infections, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)

Breastfeeding Benefits Mom:

  • Burns calories which help mothers return to their pre-pregnancy weight
  • Decreases the risk of developing diabetes, breast and ovarian cancers
  • Can decrease or delay the return of the menstrual cycle

Contraindications to Breastfeeding:  

  • Mothers diagnosed with HIV and living in the U.S. (other countries may have different rules)
  • Mothers who test positive for Ebola virus or recently recovered from it

If you need help, talk to someone such as your doctor or complete the referral form online or call 1-888-404-0620. Additional breastfeeding support can be accessed through the following agencies:

  • WIC Breastfeeding Warmline      855-427-5666
  • La Leche League HELPLINE          800-525-3243