Postpartum Disorder

What is Postpartum Depression?

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a type of depression that happens after someone gives birth. Postpartum depression doesn’t just affect the birthing person. It affects up to 15% of people.

People experience hormonal, physical, emotional, financial and social changes after having a baby. These changes can cause symptoms of postpartum depression. Postpartum depression can be treated with medication and counseling.

Types of Postpartum Depression

There are three different types of postpartum mood disorders:

Postpartum blues or baby blues

The baby blues affect between 50% and 75% of people after delivery. If you're experiencing the baby blues, you will have frequent, prolonged bouts of crying for no apparent reason, sadness and anxiety. The condition usually begins in the first week (one to four days) after delivery..

Postpartum depression

Postpartum depression is a far more serious condition than the baby blues, affecting about 1 in 7 new parents. If you've had postpartum depression before, your risk increases to 30% each pregnancy. You may experience alternating highs and lows, frequent crying, irritability and fatigue, as well as feelings of guilt, anxiety and inability to care for your baby or yourself. Symptoms range from mild to severe and may appear within a week of delivery or gradually, even up to a year later. Although symptoms can last several months, treatment with psychotherapy or antidepressants is very effective.

Postpartum psychosis

Postpartum psychosis is an extremely severe form of postpartum depression and requires emergency medical attention. This condition is relatively rare, affecting only 1 in 1,000 people after delivery. The symptoms generally occur quickly after delivery and are severe, lasting for a few weeks to several months. Symptoms include severe agitation, confusion, feelings of hopelessness and shame, insomnia, paranoia, delusions or hallucinations, hyperactivity, rapid speech or mania. Postpartum psychosis requires immediate medical attention since there is an increased risk of suicide and risk of harm to the baby. Treatment will usually include hospitalization, psychotherapy and medication.

Treating

Medications are considered safe anti-anxiety or antidepressant medicines,

Psychotherapy (talk therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy)
Support group participation.
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) can be effective.

Coping with postpartum depression

Here are some things you can do to help cope with postpartum depression:

Find someone to talk to — a therapist, friend, family member or someone who will listen to you and help you.
Join a support group for new parents.
Try to eat healthily and find time for exercise.
Prioritize rest for yourself.
Go out with friends or talk to them on the phone.
Find time for self-care and doing things you enjoy, like reading or other hobbies.
Get help with household chores.

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