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Bringing a new baby into the world can be a joyful and life-changing experience, but it’s not without challenges. Many new parents feel overwhelmed, tired, or emotional in the weeks following childbirth. These feelings, often called the “baby blues,” are common and usually go away on their own. However, if these feelings persist or get worse, they could be a sign of something more serious.
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a serious mood disorder that affects about 1 in 7 women — or 15 percent — after childbirth, according to the March of Dimes. This condition can also affect birthing parents who are transgender or nonbinary, as well as fathers and non-birthing parents. PPD is not a character flaw or a weakness — it’s a medical condition that can be treated. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of PPD is the first step toward recovery.
This article will explore the symptoms of PPD and explain what to watch out for during the perinatal (around pregnancy) period. It will also discuss when to seek help and what to do if you or someone you know is experiencing PPD.
It’s easy to confuse the baby blues with postpartum depression — also known as perinatal depression or postnatal depression — because they share some overlapping symptoms. Both conditions can cause feelings of sadness, irritability, and being overwhelmed after childbirth. However, they differ in intensity, duration, and impact on daily life. Importantly, the symptoms of baby blues usually go away on their own, whereas PPD requires treatment.
The term “baby blues” refers to a typical reaction to the hormonal and lifestyle changes that can happen after giving birth. As many as 75 percent of people experience the baby blues after delivery, according to Cleveland Clinic. Symptoms usually start within the first few days or weeks after delivery and go away on their own within a week or two. Common symptoms include:
Experiencing the baby blues usually doesn’t interfere with your ability to care for yourself or your baby. The condition is temporary and should go away without medical intervention.
Postpartum depression is more intense and lasts longer than the baby blues. PPD can start anytime during the first year after childbirth, although it frequently begins within the first month. Unlike the baby blues, PPD can persist for weeks or months. It’s more severe because it interferes with daily functioning and requires professional medical treatment to get better.
The baby blues might make you feel emotional or overwhelmed, but PPD can cause deep feelings of hopelessness or disconnection — or even thoughts of harming yourself or your baby. If you experience any of these feelings, tell your health care provider right away.
With these differences in mind, let’s take a closer look at PPD. Recognizing the symptoms can empower you or a loved one to take steps toward healing.
Emotional changes are among the most noticeable aspects of postpartum depression. Occasional mood swings are normal when adjusting to life with a new baby, but PPD involves persistent and intense feelings that interfere with daily life.
Common feelings or emotional changes related to PPD may include:
Postpartum depression can also change your behavior, making it harder to care for yourself or your baby. Some parents with PPD might not realize how much their actions — or lack of actions — have shifted.
Behavioral symptoms and changes to watch out for include:
PPD can cause different types of behavioral changes. Some people with PPD might avoid friends, family, or social gatherings, while others may neglect self-care by skipping meals, forgoing showers, or ignoring other basic needs. Activities that once brought joy may no longer be appealing. These changes in behavior can lead to a cycle that deepens feelings of isolation and sadness, making it even harder to ask for help.
Drinking or using drugs to cope with depressive symptoms is especially dangerous when breastfeeding, as these substances can be passed to the baby through breast milk.
PPD doesn’t just involve emotions, behaviors, and actions. The condition can also affect how your brain processes information, leading to problems with thinking and focus. Neurological (brain-related) symptoms of PPD may include:
Neurological symptoms of PPD can show up in different ways. For example, you might have trouble completing simple tasks or staying focused on conversations. You may feel paralyzed by minor decisions, like what to cook for dinner.
It’s not uncommon to have disturbing thoughts about harming yourself or your baby, even if you’d never act on them. These thoughts can feel terrifying and lead to intense guilt. If intrusive thoughts do occur, it’s important to share them with a trusted health care provider. Thoughts such as these are a symptom of PPD, not a reflection of who you are as a parent.
PPD can also cause physical symptoms that make it harder to manage daily life. These symptoms might be mistaken for typical postpartum recovery but, when combined with emotional or behavioral changes, could indicate PPD. Physical symptoms of PPD might include:
The physical symptoms can complicate feelings of exhaustion and being overwhelmed, making it even harder to get help.
If you recognize these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, know that help is available. PPD is treatable, and with the right care, you can feel better and enjoy life with your baby. The first thing to do is talk with your health care provider or a psychiatrist (mental health specialist). They can help you explore treatment options, which may include therapy, antidepressants, or other medications.
Don’t be afraid to lean on your support system. Let your partner, friends, and family members know how you’re feeling. They can help with baby care, pitch in with household tasks, or simply be there to listen. Never hesitate to ask for the help you need.
Practice self-care as much as you can. Try to prioritize rest and nutrition, and take opportunities for even brief moments of relaxation. Just five minutes of breathing deeply or getting some fresh air can boost your well-being.
Many people with PPD feel isolated, but you’re not alone. Support groups or online parenting forums can provide support and understanding. Above all, remember that PPD is not your fault. It’s a medical condition that requires treatment, just like any other illness.
In rare cases, PPD can escalate into postpartum psychosis, a severe condition requiring immediate attention. Postpartum psychosis affects about 1 in 1,000 mothers and often begins in the first two weeks after childbirth. Symptoms include:
If you or someone you know shows signs that they may be an immediate threat to themselves or their baby, seek emergency care right away. To get immediate help:
You can also go straight to the nearest emergency room. Health care providers will make sure you get the help you need to feel better and thrive as a parent.
MyDepressionTeam is the social network for people living with all types of depression, including postpartum depression, and their loved ones. Members come together to ask questions, offer support and advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with PPD.
Did you know about the risk factors for postpartum depression before your baby was born? Do you have any advice for others managing these risks? Share your experience, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.
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