Postpartum mental health
The baby blues
About 2 to 3 days after birth, many people feel low, anxious or upset. They may cry for no clear reason, have trouble sleeping or eating, or doubt they can care for a baby. These baby blues come and go and usually get better within a few days to 2 weeks without treatment.1
Postpartum depression
Postpartum depression is more intense and lasts longer. It brings strong sadness, anxiety or despair that make it hard to do daily tasks.1,2 Signs can include crying more than usual, feeling angry, feeling distant from the baby, and doubting you can care for them.2
It most often starts 1 to 3 weeks after birth, but can start any time in the first year.1 About 1 in 8 people who recently gave birth report symptoms.2
Myth: Feeling depressed after having a baby means you're a bad parent.
Many new parents keep quiet because they fear exactly this. is a medical condition with real causes, including the sharp drop in estrogen and progesterone after birth, exhaustion, a past history of depression and a lack of support.1 It isn't a sign of weakness, and most people get better with treatment.2
Getting help
Call an OB-GYN or other clinician right away if you think you might have , or if your partner or family are worried. Don't wait for the postpartum checkup.1 Treatment includes talk therapy and medicines, including antidepressants and a newer medicine made specifically for postpartum depression.1 A clinician can explain which are safe while breastfeeding.1
Get help now
Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, or of feeling hopeless, need medical care immediately.3 Go to an emergency room or contact a crisis line right away.
Recap
- The baby blues start a few days after birth and usually pass within 1 to 2 weeks.
- Postpartum depression is stronger and lasts longer. It most often starts 1 to 3 weeks after birth but can start up to a year later.
- About 1 in 8 people with a recent birth report symptoms of postpartum depression.
- It's treatable with talk therapy and medicines. Don't wait for a checkup to ask for help.
- Thoughts of harming yourself or the baby need urgent care.
Words to know 2
| baby blues | Mood swings, tearfulness and worry in the first days after birth that pass within about two weeks. |
|---|---|
| postpartum depression | Depression after birth that is intense, lasts longer and makes daily life hard. |
Educational information, not medical advice. Talk to your doctor about your health.