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Education
What is Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum Depression should not be confused with the "baby blues" which commonly begin soon after birth and usually resolve within about 10 days.
Up to 80% of new mothers experience "baby blues".
Signs and symptoms of the baby blues — which last only a few days or weeks — may include:
- Mood swings
- Anxiety
- Sadness
- Irritability
- Crying
- Decreased concentration
- Trouble sleeping
More severe than "baby blues" is postpartum depression. Postpartum depression may appear to be the baby blues at first — but the signs and symptoms are more intense and longer lasting, eventually interfering with your ability to care for your baby and handle other daily tasks. Onset can be gradual or rapid and without intervention, it can last for months and affect the family for years to come.
Signs and symptoms of postpartum depression may include:
- Loss of appetite
- Insomnia
- Intense irritability and anger
- Overwhelming fatigue
- Loss of interest in sex
- Lack of joy in life
- Feelings of shame, guilt or inadequacy
- Severe mood swings
- Difficulty bonding with the baby
- Withdrawal from family and friends
- Thoughts of harming yourself or the baby
Postpartum psychosisWith postpartum psychosis — a rare condition that typically develops within the first two weeks after delivery — the signs and symptoms are even more severe.
Signs and symptoms of postpartum psychosis may include:
- Confusion and disorientation
- Hallucinations and delusions
- Paranoia
- Attempts to harm yourself or the baby
Risk Factors for postpartum depression:
- A history of postpartum depression
- Depression or anxiety during pregnancy
- Lack of support from one's spouse, family or friends
- Personal or family history of depression or anxiety
- Labor/Delivery complications for mother or baby
- Difficulties with the baby (health, temperament, feeding or sleeping problems)
- Marital problems
If you or a new mother you know needs some help ... Reach out, we're here for you.
Warmline: 323-761-8800-x1028 or
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