Overview

The birth of a baby can bring a range of emotions, from joy to anxiety. Many new moms experience postpartum "baby blues," characterized by mood swings, anxiety, and crying spells, lasting up to two weeks after childbirth. However, some new moms develop a more severe and long-lasting form of depression called postpartum depression, which may begin during pregnancy and continue after childbirth.

Postpartum depression is not a character flaw but a complication of giving birth. Prompt treatment can help manage symptoms and facilitate bonding with the baby.

Symptoms

Postpartum depression symptoms can vary in intensity and include:

Baby blues symptoms:

• Mood swings
• Anxiety
• Sadness
• Irritability
• Feeling overwhelmed
• Crying
• Reduced concentration
• Appetite problems
• Trouble sleeping

Postpartum depression symptoms:

• Depressed mood or severe mood swings
• Excessive crying
• Difficulty bonding with the baby
• Withdrawing from family and friends
• Loss of appetite or overeating
• Insomnia or sleeping too much
• Overwhelming tiredness
• Loss of interest and pleasure in activities
• Intense irritability and anger
• Feelings of worthlessness, shame, or guilt
• Reduced ability to think clearly or make decisions
• Restlessness
• Severe anxiety and panic attacks
• Thoughts of harming yourself or the baby
• Recurring thoughts of death or suicide

Postpartum psychosis symptoms:

• Feeling confused and lost
• Having obsessive thoughts about the baby
• Hallucinations and delusions
• Sleep problems
• Excessive energy and agitation
• Paranoia
• Attempts to harm yourself or the baby

Postpartum depression in the other parent:

New fathers can also experience postpartum depression, exhibiting symptoms similar to those in mothers.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience any symptoms of baby blues or postpartum depression, call your healthcare provider promptly. Seek immediate help if symptoms include thoughts of harming yourself or the baby.

Causes

The causes of postpartum depression may include genetics, physical changes, and emotional issues:

• Genetics: A family history of postpartum depression increases the risk.
• Physical changes: Hormonal shifts after childbirth, such as a drop in estrogen and progesterone, may contribute to depression.
• Emotional issues: Sleep deprivation, feeling overwhelmed, and other stressors can contribute to postpartum depression.

Risk Factors

Risk factors for postpartum depression include a history of depression or bipolar disorder, family history of mood disorders, stressful events, health problems in the baby, relationship issues, weak support system, financial problems, and unplanned pregnancy.

Complications

Untreated postpartum depression can affect mother-child bonding, family relationships, and child development. It may lead to ongoing depressive disorder and increase the risk of future depression episodes.

Prevention

If you have a history of depression, inform your healthcare provider when planning a pregnancy. Screening and early treatment during pregnancy and after childbirth can help manage postpartum depression. Most antidepressants are safe to take while breastfeeding.