Which of the following is considered a normal perinatal symptom when compared to symptoms of perinatal depression?

Which of the following is considered a normal perinatal symptom when compared to symptoms of perinatal depression?

• A. Persistent low energy not restored by rest
• B. Labile mood
• C. Suppressed joy or anticipation
• D. Anhedonia

Answer: (B)

Labile mood is considered a normal perinatal symptom because it reflects the emotional fluctuations commonly experienced during pregnancy and the postpartum period due to hormonal changes and the stress of becoming a parent. This variability in mood can be influenced by various factors, including fatigue, physical discomfort, and the significant life change that comes with pregnancy or childbirth. Unlike symptoms indicative of perinatal depression, such as persistent low energy that is not alleviated by rest, suppressed joy or anticipation, and anhedonia—which all signal a more profound emotional disturbance—labile mood is more often viewed as a typical aspect of the perinatal experience. Understanding this helps differentiate between normal emotional responses during the perinatal period and signs that might require further assessment for depression.

Labile mood is considered a normal perinatal symptom because it reflects the emotional fluctuations commonly experienced during pregnancy and the postpartum period due to hormonal changes and the stress of becoming a parent. This variability in mood can be influenced by various factors, including fatigue, physical discomfort, and the significant life change that comes with pregnancy or childbirth. Unlike symptoms indicative of perinatal depression, such as persistent low energy that is not alleviated by rest, suppressed joy or anticipation, and anhedonia—which all signal a more profound emotional disturbance—labile mood is more often viewed as a typical aspect of the perinatal experience. Understanding this helps differentiate between normal emotional responses during the perinatal period and signs that might require further assessment for depression.