Postpartum Depression from the Office on Women's Health, Washington, D.C. (Postpartum Care).

Women and Postpartum Depression

Having a baby is one of the most exciting and joyous events in a woman's life. Life with a new baby can be thrilling and rewarding, but it can also be stressful and difficult for the new mother. The physical and emotional changes associated with pregnancy and childbirth, as well as the social isolation common to many mothers, leaves many new mothers feeling sad, anxious, afraid, or confused after delivery. These feelings are common and are often dismissed as "normal." However, many women who are experiencing these emotions have postpartum depression, and they need medical treatment. (1)

What Is Postpartum Depression?

The term postpartum depression describes the range of physical, emotional, and behavioral changes that many new mothers experience following the birth of their babies. Symptoms of this condition can range from mild to severe. A new mother's depression may be a mild, brief bout of "baby blues"; or she may suffer from postpartum depression, a much more serious condition. In some cases, new mothers may have postpartum psychosis, a relatively rare but severe and incapacitating illness. (2)

The Range of Postpartum Conditions

The "baby blues." This condition occurs in many new mothers in the days immediately following childbirth. (3) It is characterized by sudden mood swings, which range from euphoria to intense sadness. Symptoms may include crying for no apparent reason; impatience; irritability; restlessness; anxiety; feelings of loneliness, sadness, and low self-esteem; increased sensitivity; and heightened feelings of vulnerability. The "baby blues" may last only a few hours or as long as one to two weeks after delivery. The condition may disappear as quickly and as suddenly as it appeared, without medical treatment. (4)

Postpartum Depression (PPD). Roughly 10% of pregnancies result in postpartum depressions (5),…