But it can also result in something you might not expectdepression.
But some new moms experience a more severe, long-lasting form of depression known as postpartum depression.
Rarely, an extreme mood disorder called postpartum psychosis also may develop after childbirth.
Postpartum depression isn’t a character flaw or a weakness.
Sometimes it’s simply a complication of giving birth.
If you have postpartum depression, prompt treatment can help you manage your symptomsand enjoy your baby.
Signs and symptoms of depression after childbirth vary, and they can range from mild to severe.
Postpartum depression symptoms may include:
Untreated, postpartum depression may last for many months or longer.
Signs and symptoms may include:
Postpartum psychosis may lead to life-threatening thoughts or behaviors and requires immediate treatment.
If you have symptoms that suggest you may have postpartum psychosis, get help immediately.
They may not be aware of signs and symptoms of depression.
Don’t wait and hope for improvement.
There’s no single cause of postpartum depression, but physical and emotional issues may play a role.
Postpartum depression can develop after the birth of any child, not just the first.
The risk increases if:
Left untreated, postpartum depression can interfere with mother-child bonding and cause family problems.
Don’t be embarrassed.
Share your symptoms with your doctor so that a useful treatment plan can be created for you.
Treatment and recovery time vary, depending on the severity of your depression and your individual needs.
Your doctor also may refer you to a mental health provider.
The baby blues usually fade on their own within a few days to one to two weeks.
With appropriate treatment, postpartum depression usually goes away within six months.
In some cases, postpartum depression lasts much longer, becoming chronic depression.
It’s important to continue treatment after you begin to feel better.
Stopping treatment too early may lead to a relapse.
Postpartum psychosis requires immediate treatment, often in the hospital.
Treatment may include:
Treatment for postpartum psychosis can challenge a mother’s ability to breast-feed.
If you’re experiencing postpartum psychosis, your doctor can help you work through these challenges.
Remember, the best way to take care of your baby is to take care of yourself.
The already stressful, exhausting period following a baby’s birth is more difficult when depression occurs.
But remember, postpartum depression is never anyone’s fault.
It’s a common medical condition that needs treatment.
So, if you’re having trouble coping with postpartum depression, talk with a therapist.
Ask your doctor or therapist about local support groups for new moms or women who have postpartum depression.
Updated: 2015-08-11
Publication Date: 2004-06-11
