Postpartum Depression

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Many women often suffer what doctors call the "baby blues" immediately following the birth of a baby. Typically these "blues" end within a 1 to 2 week timeframe. Some women however, find the blues do not go away, and instead get worse. This may be a sign of postpartum depression.

Simply defined, postpartum depression is a type of depression that follows the birth of a child. A woman can have a wonderful pregnancy and delivery, no history of depression, and still develop postpartum depression. This type of depression is very serious and requires immediate attention. Many doctors screen women for postpartum depression or "PPD" in the weeks following labor.

Overview of Postpartum Depression or PPD in Women
Women that develop postpartum depression often feel sad and confused in the weeks following the birth of their baby. After all, a woman waits nine months to meet her newborn, only to discover she can't stop crying following birth...

However, PPD is much more serious than shedding a few tears. All women undergo amazing hormone changes in the weeks following delivery. These changes may vary depending on a woman's medical history, personal health and whether she decides to breastfeed her baby.

Many women feel a little blue for a few days following birth. There is a lot of excitement and enthusiasm that comes with pregnancy. Once a woman actually has her baby, she may feel blue as her hormone levels drop to more normal levels, and the excitement and anticipation of having a baby wears off. Others feel blue because they are tired and need more rest following delivery.

PPD however, is very common, and doesn't just involving feeling sad. Usually PPD results in feelings of hopelessness, guilt and anxiety. Some women with postpartum depression may become overly obsessed with checking on their child during the night, a habit that contributes to sleep deprivation.

Other women find they feel overwhelmed, and don't want anything to do with their new child. This can cause strain for both parents, and is harmful for the mother, father and baby alike.

Postpartum Psychosis and Treatment
In very rare cases, PPD develops so severely a woman develops what doctors call "postpartum psychosis". This is the most severe form of depression a woman may develop following labor and delivery. Some of the symptoms of postpartum psychosis include:

This form of depression is very severe, and many women lose their lives, or their children because of it. For this reason it is critical that all doctors screen women for PPD following birth, and that all women honestly state their feelings to their doctor on screening.

Some women are afraid to tell their doctors about the feelings they have following birth. Most people are concerned that others will expect them to "coo" when caring for their baby.

If you suffer from PPD however, you may not feel this way, and you do not have to feel guilty about it. This is a common condition, affecting as much as 10 percent of new mothers. If you do find you feel depressed and out of sorts, make sure you contact your healthcare provider or doctor immediately. He or she will likely recommend short-term antidepressant therapy. You can work with your doctor to find a safe or the safest possible antidepressant to take if you want to breastfeed your baby.

You may also benefit by joining support groups for women with PPD. Women with a history of depression or other mental health disorders are more at risk for PPD than others. You should let your doctor know of any family history of depression or PPD, so your doctor can screen you for PPD earlier than he or she might if you had no risk factors.

The good news is with proper care, most women recover from PPD and go on to build lasting bonds with their children and their family. If you feel you suffer from more than just the baby blues, pick up the phone and call your doctor. Help is available, and it's just a phone call away.