Post-Partum Depression

Many women, and perhaps most women, experience at least a few days of "baby blues" starting within a few days of giving birth. This is common enough and mild enough that we do not think of it as a disorder.

Postpartum depression is a more significant problem. It is a disturbance of mood that begins within four weeks of giving birth.

Although usually it takes the form of a Major Depressive Episode (see Major Depression), the reaction can also resemble a Manic Episode (see Bipolar Disorder), or an episode that mixes manic and depressed symptoms.

Common symptoms include extreme anxiety, panic attacks, spontaneous crying, disinterest in the child, and difficulty falling asleep.

In some cases psychotic symptoms develop, such as delusions about the infant (e.g., that the newborn is possessed) or auditory hallucinations (hearing voices, which are usually hostile). These symptoms are less common, however.

If, based on this description, you believe that you may have Post-Partum Depression, tell your physician. Effective treatments are available for this problem.

Note: Information on these pages is provided for educational purposes only. It should not be taken as a substitute for care from a qualified healthcare provider.