Postpartum Depression

Having a baby can be a joyous occasion, but being a new mother can also be quite stressful. It is not unusual for new moms to experience a wide variety of conflicting feelings, from joy to extreme sadness. Approximately 75 to 80 percent of new mothers suffer some kind of sadness or "the blues" beginning within 3 to 5 days after delivery. These feelings can last for a few hours or up to two weeks. In most cases, feelings of sadness disappear within two weeks, but a continued case of the blues, accompanied by constant fatigue, loss of appetite, and either intense concern or lack of interest in the baby may be a signal of postpartum depression (PPD). PPD affects approximately 15 to 20 percent of new mothers and should be treated immediately.

Often women don't seek help for PPD because they don't recognize the seriousness of their symptoms, or they find it difficult to ask for help. However, when detected early, treatment for PPD is very effective. Talk to your doctor about PPD or if you are experiencing any symptoms listed on the PPD fact sheet.

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