post partum depression

Postpartum Depression


Having a baby is a happy exciting experience, or it should be. When a woman feels depressed after giving birth its something to be concerned about. After having a baby it is normal for a woman to experience mood swings. One minute they are happy the next they’re crying. They may also experience loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping or concentrating or may feel a little depressed. This depression is brief and not severe. 50% to 80% of all new mothers experience this feeling of letdown after the emotionally charged experience of birth. Maternity blues also known as the “Baby blues” can start from two to four days after childbirth. The blues usually last no longer than ten to twelve days. However, some women have worse symptoms and they don’t go away. This is known as postpartum depression (PPD). PPD is defined as mild to moderately severe depression that begins within three months following childbirth. PPD can last anywhere from tw...