Most women expect to feel joy and excitement when welcoming a new baby. However, many women experience a mix of emotions after childbirth, which may include sadness, anxiety or a feeling of being overwhelmed. These feelings are normal and often improve within a few days. If your symptoms last longer or begin to interfere with your daily life, it may be postpartum depression (PPD).
PPD is a medical condition that can develop during pregnancy or in the first year after birth. It is more serious than “baby blues” and requires timely support and care. PPD usually responds well to treatment, and most women improve quickly once they get help.
Causes and Risk Factors
PPD can result from a combination of physical, emotional and environmental factors. These may include:
- Hormonal changes after childbirth
- Sleep deprivation
- Stress or changes in family dynamics
- Complications during pregnancy or delivery
- Limited support at home
- Personal or family history of depression or anxiety
Having these risk factors does not mean you will develop PPD, but they may increase the likelihood.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms can vary, but may include:
- Persistent sadness or crying
- Feeling overwhelmed, hopeless or unable to cope
- Difficulty bonding with your baby
- Loss of interest in your usual activities
- Trouble sleeping, even when your baby is sleeping
- Feeling irritable, anxious or easily frustrated
- Changes in appetite
- Difficulty focusing or making decisions
If feelings of depression become intense or interfere with caring for yourself or your baby, it is important to reach out for help.
When to Seek Help
Contact a healthcare provider as soon as possible if you:
- Have symptoms that last longer than 2 weeks
- Have emotions that make daily activities or infant care difficult
- Are withdrawing from family or support systems
- Have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
Seek emergency help immediately if there are safety concerns.
Diagnosis
Your physician or provider may diagnose PPD by:
- Discussing your symptoms, feelings and concerns
- Using screening tools during prenatal or postpartum visits
- Reviewing your medical history
- Conducting an exam to rule out other causes of symptoms
Early diagnosis allows treatment to begin sooner and supports better recovery.
Treatment Options
With proper care, most women recover from PPD. Treatment may include:
- Therapy or counseling
- Medication
- Lifestyle changes
Small changes at home may also make a difference, such as:
- Resting when possible
- Accepting help with baby care and household tasks
- Staying connected with friends, family or support groups
- Eating well and staying active when you can
In severe cases, short-term intensive treatment or inpatient support may be recommended to ensure your safety and help you stabilize.
You Are Not Alone
Our goal is to help women feel supported, understood and equipped to recover while caring for themselves and their families.
PPD is common and treatable.
If you are struggling, reach out to your primary care provider, OB/GYN or another trusted healthcare provider. They can help you find the resources you need to start feeling better.