Depression: Managing postpartum depression

What is postpartum depression?

Postpartum depression is more than a temporary feeling of sadness or lack of energy—it is a medical condition that develops some time in the first several months after childbirth. It seems to be triggered by the normal hormonal changes that occur after pregnancy. These hormonal changes are especially likely to lead to postpartum depression if you've had depression before, are under a lot of additional stress, or have poor support from your partner, friends, or family.²

You probably have postpartum depression if you've had five or more of the following symptoms (including at least one of the first two symptoms) for most of each day over the past 2 weeks:²

1. Depressed mood—tearfulness, hopelessness, and feeling empty inside, possibly with severe anxiety
2. A significant loss of pleasure in either all or almost all of your daily activities
3. Appetite and weight change—usually a drop in your appetite and weight, but sometimes the opposite
4. Sleep problems—usually insomnia, even when your baby is sleeping
5. Noticeable changes in how you walk and talk—usually restlessness, but sometimes sluggishness
6. Extreme fatigue or loss of energy
7. Feeling worthless or having inappropriate guilt
8. Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
9. Thinking a lot about death or suicide

If you think you have postpartum depression after reviewing this list, click here to fill out and print a postpartum depression checklist (What is a PDF document?) to take to your doctor. Early treatment is important for both you and your baby.

Test Your Knowledge

1. I know I'm supposed to be happy about having a baby, but I feel hopeless and unhappy. But I don't have all of the symptoms on the list. Should I see my doctor?

1. Yes
2. No

2. I've never had a problem with depression before. Do I have any risk of postpartum depression?

1. Yes
2. No

Continue to Why treat postpartum depression?
Return to Depression: Managing postpartum depression

Author:	Jeannette Curtis	Last Updated: June 24, 2008
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry
© 1995-2009 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.