Postpartum Depression

Posted: Jan. 1, 2004

In addition to the physical changes to your body, you may feel sad or have the “baby blues.” This can be a very normal phase following childbirth.

Fifty to 75 percent of new mothers feel a little sad or depressed after giving birth. Your hormone changes, your feelings of anxiety about caring for a new baby, and your lack of sleep all will affect your emotions.

Be patient with yourself. These feelings are normal and should get better over time. Be aware of your feelings and continue to talk with your family, friends, and your health care provider.

If you are extremely sad or are unable to care for yourself or your baby, call your health care provider right away. You might have a serious condition called postpartum depression.

Other signs of postpartum depression include:

• Feeling restless or irritable.
• Feeling sad, depressed or crying a lot.
• Having no energy.
• Having headaches, chest pains, heart palpitations (the heart beating fast and feeling like it is skipping beats), numbness, or hyperventilation (fast and shallow breathing).
• Not being able to sleep or being very tired, or both.
• Not being able to eat.
• Overeating and weight gain.
• Trouble focusing, remembering, or making decisions.
• Being overly worried about the baby.
• Not having any interest in the baby.
• Feeling worthless and guilty.
• Being afraid of hurting the baby or yourself.
• No interest or pleasure in activities.

Postpartum depression can be successfully treated with medication or therapy, which can help you feel better and get back to enjoying your new baby.

Source: National Women’s Health Information Center of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

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