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Postpartum Depression Multiplied

Moms of Multiples Face Increased Risk of Baby Blues

By Teri Brown

Why is the incidence of PPD so much higher in mothers of multiples than mothers of singletons? Besides the above stressors, there are other indicators.

"It is believed that multiple birth may be a risk factor in itself," says Bowers. "Factors related to multiple birth which add risk include a higher incidence of preterm births, the volume and constancy of the babies' needs, insufficient support, sleep deprivation and social isolation. Many women with multiples have also had complicated pregnancies and births, including prolonged bed rest, making physical recovery harder."

A lack of consistent physical and emotional support, especially for those with triplets or more, is a contributing factor to PPD. For mothers who receive initial support, it can be overwhelming when grandparents go back home or a spouse returns to work at the end of family leave.

"Many mothers feel isolated, particularly when they cannot get out of the house, either alone or with their babies," says Bowers.

t is this sort of isolation that needs to be addressed and alleviated, says Mary Adcock, executive vice president of the National Organization of Mothers of Twins Clubs

Want to see more?

• Two at Once: Becoming a Parent of Twins
• Postpartum Depression: Preventing Tragedy
• Postpartum Depression: When Having a Baby Gives You More Than the Blues
• Talk about it!

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