Post-partum depression

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Depression - postpartum

Post-partum depression is severe depression in a woman after she has given birth. It may occur soon after delivery or up to a year later. Most of the time, it occurs sometime in the first 4 weeks after delivery.

Expected Mood Changes

Women commonly have mood changes during pregnancy. They are caused by changes in hormone levels. Many mood changes are normal and even expected, since having a baby can lead to several lifestyle changes. Support from your family and friends can help.

Post-partum Blues

Approximately 50 - 70% of women may experience depression for a short time after pregnancy. These are feelings of anxiety, irritation, tearfulness, and restlessness that are often called “the post-partum blues.” This generally occurs in the first few weeks after pregnancy and goes away soon, without the need for treatment.

Post-partum Depression

Post-partum depression is a more serious condition that affects between 8 - 20% of women after pregnancy, especially the first 4 weeks. It is necessary to seek medical attention to treat post-partum depression. You may have a higher chance of post-partum depression if you:

• Had a mood or anxiety disorder prior to pregnancy, including depression with a previous pregnancy
• Have a close family member who has had depression or anxiety
• Had something stressful happened to you during the pregnancy, including illness, death or illness of a loved one, a difficult or emergency delivery, premature delivery, or illness or abnormality in the baby
• Are under age 20
• Did not plan the pregnancy or do not want the pregnancy
• Currently abuse alcohol, take illegal substances, or smoke (these are also serious medical health risks for the baby)
• Have little support from family, friends, and a significant other
• Have a poor relationship with your husband, boyfriend, or significant other or are unmarried
• Previously attempted suicide
• Have financial problems (low income, poor housing)
• Received poor support from your parents in childhood

Review Date: 01/23/2007
Reviewed By: Audra Robertson, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.