WebMD: Better Information. Better Health.
Skip to content

Postpartum Depression Health Center

Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression occurs in women just after giving birth. Symptoms include sadness and hopelessness over and above the normal baby blues.Postpartum depression is treated with counseling and antidepressants.

User ReviewsCompare depression drugs.

Fight DepressionExercise, diet & stress tips.
Latest Headlines
Diabetes in Pregnancy Tied to Depression
Pregnant moms with diabetes have an increased risk for postpartum depression, according to research appearing in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Newsletter

See all 30 newsletter topics

Understanding Postpartum Depression - the Basics

Postpartum depression (PPD) is temporary depression related to pregnancy and childbirth. It comes in two forms: early onset, commonly referred to as the "baby blues," and late onset. The early-onset type is mild and may affect as many as 80% of women after they deliver. It starts after delivery and usually resolves within a couple of weeks without medical treatment. The later-onset form is what most people think of as postpartum depression. This more severe form is usually recognized several weeks after delivery. Overall it affects about 10%-16% of women.

Symptoms of the "baby blues" include sadness, anxiety, tearfulness, and trouble sleeping. These symptoms usually appear within several days of delivery and go away by 10 to 12 days after the birth. Usually the only treatment needed is reassurance and some help with household chores and care of the baby. About 20% of women who have postpartum blues will develop more lasting depression. So it is very important to let your doctor know if you experience "blues" that last longer than two weeks.

webMD Video

click to show or hide video description  Midwives and Postpartum Depression

48x48_midwives_postpartum_depression.jpg

It's normal to get mood swings after you have a baby, but some women develop a more serious condition.

Watch Video

click to show or hide video description  Postpartum Depression Screening

click to show or hide video description  New Moms Back to Work?

click to show or hide video description  Antidepressant Side Effects

click to show or hide video description  Stress That Can Kill

Most Popular Stories