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Understanding Postpartum Depression

Editorially reviewed by Dr. Saundra Jain; published by Clinical Topics in Depression from Psych Congress Network

Women face enormous pressure and hormonal changes before, during and after the birth of a baby. It can put women at risk for postpartum depression. Postpartum depression is a serious but treatable medical condition associated with deep sadness, apathy, and/or anxiety as well as with changes in energy, sleep, and appetite. In addition, those who develop postpartum depression are at greater risk of developing major depression later on in life. If left untreated, it will affect quality of life.

For most women, having a baby is a very exciting, joyful, and sometimes nervous time. However, it can be very distressing and difficult for women who develop postpartum depression. Perinatal, or postpartum, depression refers to depression that occurs after childbirth. Postpartum depression is a serious but treatable medical condition associated with feelings of extreme sadness, apathy, and/or anxiety as well as with changes in energy, sleep, and appetite.1

Postpartum depression is a common and serious condition. Using the Pregnancy Risk Assessment and Monitoring System (PRAMS), a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) study found that about 1 in 8 women who recently gave birth experience symptoms of postpartum depression.2 The estimated number of women affected by postpartum depression varies by age, race/ethnicity, and country.2

Types of Postpartum Depression

Postpartum Blues or Baby Blues

Baby blues affects 50% to 75% of people after birth. Baby blues can often manifest as constant crying, sadness, or anxiety for no apparent reason.3 The condition usually begins within a week (days 1-4) after giving birth.3 Although uncomfortable, the condition usually resolves within 2 weeks without treatment.3

Postpartum Depression 

Postpartum depression, which is a much more serious condition compared to baby blues, affects 1 in 7 new parents.3 Women who previously had postpartum depression have a 30% increased risk with each subsequent pregnancy.3 Affected individuals can experience mild to severe symptoms that may appear within the first week after giving birth or gradually over the next year.3 Symptoms can last for months, but treatment with psychotherapy and antidepressants is very effective.3

Postpartum Psychosis

Postpartum psychosis is a serious form of postpartum depression that requires urgent medical attention. The condition is relatively rare and affects only 1 in 1,000 people after birth.3 Symptoms usually appear soon after delivery, are severe, and last weeks to months; they include hyperexcitability, confusion, hopelessness and shame, insomnia, paranoia, delusions or hallucinations, hyperactivity, rapid talking, and mania.3 Postpartum psychosis requires immediate medical attention because it increases the risk of suicide or harm to the baby; treatment usually includes hospitalization, psychotherapy, and medication.3

Who Is at Risk?

Any woman who has given birth may experience symptoms of postpartum depression and other mood disorders.1 ….