How do you know if it is baby blues or postpartum depression?

Answer 1

Postpartum blues is the moodiness a woman feels after birth, signifying the transition to motherhood. Usually caused by the sudden hormonal changes. It is different from postpartum depression which is a more serious issue.

Answer 2

While many women have heard of the baby blues and postpartum depression, few understand the differences between the two terms or the prevalence of the latter.

According to The Journal of Pediatrics "every year, more than 400,000 infants are born to mothers who are depressed, which makes perinatal depression the most underdiagnosed obstetric complication in America." There are also perinatal mood and anxiety disorders in addition to depression, including anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, Bipolar disorder, and postpartum psychosis.

The Baby Blues

The baby blues are NOT depression. They are very common and affect about 60-80% of new moms. The baby blues, also known as postpartum blues, usually start within three days of giving birth and can last up to 14 days. The symptoms can include crying, feeling overwhelmed with motherhood, and fatigue. These symptoms are due to the extreme hormone fluctuations that occur at birth as well as sleep deprivation. They typically go away on their own without treatment and rarely require more than a few days of rest and support.

Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression (PPD) is more intense and must be present for more than 2 weeks to distinguish it from the baby blues. Pediatrics.org estimates that up to 20% of new mothers experience postpartum depression. PPD can be found in women of any culture, age, income level, or ethnicity and can occur after any birth (not just after first baby). It can begin at any time in the first year after a baby is born.

Postpartum Depression Symptoms

Symptoms of postpartum depressions differ for each women but may include any of the following: feelings of anger, fear and/or guilt, lack of interest in the baby, appetite and sleep disturbances, loss of interest in enjoyable activities, difficulty concentrating/making decisions, and less commonly thoughts of harming oneself or the baby. Recent research has shown that partners can have PPD as well.

Postpartum Depression Help

Without appropriate intervention, postpartum depression can have long term, adverse effects on mom, baby, and partner. If you are experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression, help is near! It is important to seek help from a clinician that has training and experience in treating perinatal mood disorders. Although you may notice symptoms associated with PPD, only a qualified healthcare provider can make a diagnosis. Often an obstetric physician can provide a referral. Supportive professionals as well as a support group will be helpful in coping with and reducing the symptoms of PPD. Remember "You are not alone, it is not your fault, and with help you will get better."

Online and/or Phone Resources

Postpartum Support International (PSI) (postpartum.net) is dedicated to helping women suffering from perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, including postpartum depression, the most common complication of childbirth.

PSI Helpline: (800) 944-4PPD

Postpartum Progress (postpartumprogress.com) exists to provide peer-to-peer support. The information on their site is for education and advocacy purposes.

Both of the above resources also have information on how to find local help for perinatal mood disorders.