What is postpartum depression?

Having a baby is a huge life change, and the postpartum period can be an overwhelming experience for many women. Postpartum depression (PPD) is more than just the baby blues. It is a mood disorder that can occur after childbirth. Postpartum depression is relatively common, affecting 1 in 8 new mothers. It often starts within the first month after delivery but can occur up to a year after childbirth.

Caring for a new baby can be challenging, and many mothers may feel overwhelmed when bringing their babies home. Some moms may have postpartum depression symptoms but feel guilty or ashamed to seek help. If you can relate, it is not your fault or caused by anything you did. You are not alone in struggling with adjusting to life with a new baby. Understanding the symptoms of postpartum depression allows you to seek help and get the support you need.

Symptoms of postpartum depression

  • Changes in sleeping or eating patterns
  • Difficulty concentrating, focusing, remembering things or making decisions
  • Eating or sleeping more or less than usual
  • Feeling irritable, angry, moody or lashing out
  • Feeling restless, fidgeting or unable to sit still
  • Feeling withdrawn from loved ones
  • Feelings of anxiety, despair, sadness or hopelessness
  • Feelings of guilt, shame, pessimism or worthlessness
  • Frequent crying
  • Inability to experience joyful feelings
  • Losing interest in things you once enjoyed
  • Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby

When to see a doctor

If you are experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression that last more than two weeks, you should talk to your doctor. Also, talk to your doctor if your symptoms prevent you from going about your daily routine.

Seek urgent medical care if you have severe symptoms or thoughts of harming yourself, your baby or others. If your medical provider is not immediately available, call 911 or contact one of the following national resources:

  • National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: 1.833.TLC.MAMA (1.833.852.6262). Dial 711 first if you are hearing impaired
  • Postpartum Support International Helpline: Call or text “help” to 1.800.944.4773
  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 (or 711, then 988 if you are hearing impaired)

How long does postpartum depression last?

Women can experience postpartum depression very differently. For some women, symptoms can last for a few months, but for a small percentage of women, postpartum depression can last for years. Seeking treatment will help you manage symptoms and improve your mental health more effectively than if you wait for symptoms to go away on their own.

What causes postpartum depression?

More research is needed to understand the connection between the rapid hormonal drop after delivery and depression. During pregnancy, estrogen and progesterone levels increase significantly but fall sharply after childbirth, returning to pre-pregnancy levels within three days.

Beyond these hormonal changes, the social and psychological adjustments of having a baby—such as physical changes, sleep deprivation, parenting worries and shifts in relationships—can also heighten the risk of postpartum depression.

Risk factors for postpartum depression

You may be at higher risk for postpartum depression if you:

  • Had depression before or during pregnancy
  • Have a family history of depression
  • Experienced abuse or adversity as a child
  • Had a difficult or traumatic birth
  • Encountered issues with a previous pregnancy or birth
  • Have minimal support from family, friends or partners
  • Are experiencing or have experienced domestic violence
  • Face relationship issues, financial problems or other significant stressors
  • Are under the age of 20
  • Find breastfeeding challenging
  • Have a premature baby or one with special healthcare needs
  • Had an unplanned pregnancy

How is postpartum depression diagnosed?

There is no specific test for diagnosing postpartum depression. Your healthcare provider will assess you during your postpartum visit, typically scheduled two or three weeks after birth, to screen for depression and provide timely support.

They may use a depression screening tool or ask questions to evaluate your symptoms and your baby's well-being. Being open and honest will help them accurately understand your feelings and determine whether they indicate postpartum depression or are part of typical adjustments. Other treatable causes of depression, such as hypothyroidism, may need to be ruled out with blood tests.

Remember, your provider is there to support your health and well-being. You're not alone in this journey, and your provider is committed to walking this path with you. There is no judgment in seeking help, only care and understanding.

Treatments for postpartum depression

Help is out there for new moms, and you do not have to live with postpartum depression. Many treatments are available, and your obstetrician-gynecologist (OBGYN) can refer you to a mental health professional for additional care.

Self-care

There are self-care strategies that can support your recovery:

  • Make healthy choices: Incorporate physical activity into your routine, such as taking walks with your baby, and aim for adequate rest. Eat nutritious foods and avoid alcohol.
  • Set realistic expectations: Don’t pressure yourself to achieve perfection. Adjust your expectations for household tasks and focus on what you can manage.
  • Take time for yourself: Schedule time away from home, whether it’s a hobby, a movie or spending time with friends. Arrange for a partner or sitter to watch the baby if needed.
  • Avoid isolation: Share your feelings with your partner, family and friends. Connect with other mothers to understand their experiences and feel less isolated.
  • Ask for help: Reach out to those close to you and accept offers of help. Use the opportunity to rest or engage in activities you enjoy. Additionally, seek advice on parenting techniques to improve your baby's sleep and soothe them.

How to prevent postpartum depression

While postpartum depression cannot be entirely prevented, recognizing warning signs and understanding risk factors can help. Here are some tips to reduce the risk of postpartum depression:

Prioritize physical and mental health

Take good care of yourself during pregnancy and after delivery.

Create a support plan

Discuss and arrange support with your partner and loved ones before the baby arrives.

Monitor symptoms

Keep track of your symptoms, especially if you have risk factors for postpartum depression.

Work with an OBGYN early

Regular prenatal visits allow for physical and mental health discussions. Your OBGYN can assess your risk for postpartum depression and monitor symptoms like those of perinatal depression.

Manage existing health conditions

Follow your OBGYN's guidance on managing chronic conditions and perinatal depression. Take your prescribed medications and seek medical advice if new or worsening symptoms arise.

Virtual postpartum care

Get access to six months of online care and support to help you and your new baby get a healthy start. Our Postpartum Care program connects you with a dedicated nurse care advocate who provides guidance and resources and can help you access lactation consultants, pelvic floor physical therapists, mental health support and more.

Connect with postpartum specialists

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Find specialized care for postpartum depression

We help you get care at a location that fits your needs. We offer several locations for your care, including specialized women’s health centers in North and Central Texas.

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