Postpartum depression is a form of major depression that begins within the first four weeks after giving birth. It is linked to chemical, social and psychological changes that happen when having a baby.

Most new mothers experience what is often called the “baby blues” the first few days after delivery. Postpartum depression is a more severe and longer lasting instance of low mood and depression symptoms. Approximately 1 in 10 women will experience postpartum depression that extends well beyond the first few days of parenthood. Dads and nonbirthing parents are vulnerable to postpartum depression as well, with around 1 in 10 getting depression within the first year of a child’s life.¹

Postpartum depression can be difficult to diagnose because so many women experience major depression symptoms in the first few days after delivery, including:²

• Trouble sleeping.

• Appetite changes.

• Severe fatigue.

• Lower libido.

• Frequent mood changes.

What sets postpartum depression apart is the addition of these symptoms:³

• Being uninterested in your baby or feeling like you’re not bonding with them.

• Crying all the time, often for no reason.

• Depressed mood.

• Severe anger and crankiness.

• Loss of pleasure.

• Feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness and helplessness.

• Thoughts of death or suicide.

• Thoughts of hurting someone else.

• Trouble concentrating or making decisions.

If you are thinking about harming yourself, your child or anyone else, please seek immediate medical attention by going to the emergency room or dialing emergency services at 911 or 988.

Postpartum depression can last for a few weeks, a few months or even a few years. One study showed that up to 5% of women reported high levels of postpartum depression three years after giving birth.⁴

While many women experience the “baby blues” just after delivery, if you experience depression symptoms for two weeks or longer, it is time to reach out for professional help.⁵

Postpartum depression was first listed as a type of Major Depressive Disorder in the 1994 edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV).⁶

Yes, medical professionals do use a screening to diagnose postpartum depression. It generally consists of a series of questions for the patient to answer. The medical professional can then determine if the patient has enough of the symptoms and factors for a postpartum depression diagnosis.⁷

There is evidence to support that postpartum depression is a genetic condition. One of the risk factors of developing postpartum depression is having a family history of depression or other mental illness.⁸ There have also been some studies that identified certain genes that could make you predisposed to postpartum depression.⁹

Yes, approximately 1 in 10 fathers will experience depression within the first year of a child’s life.¹⁰

Approximately 20% of women who experience miscarriage exhibit symptoms of depression and anxiety. The symptoms and effects on life can remain present for years after the miscarriage.¹¹

The symptoms of postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety have some differences. The main symptoms of postpartum depression are feelings of sadness and worthlessness. Postpartum anxiety is classified by feelings of extreme worry, rather than sadness.

Many symptoms overlap between postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety, including disrupted sleep and feeling afraid. It is possible to experience both postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety at the same time.¹²

Postpartum depression is associated with a significantly higher rate of suicide among mothers. It is also associated with a shorter period between the birth of a child and the suicide of the mother. Studies have shown that younger age, winter, and subclinical depression and anxiety increased the risk of suicide.¹³

If you are having thoughts of suicide, please call the crisis helpline at 988 or emergency services at 911 for immediate medical attention.

1. WebMD

2. WebMD

3. WebMD

4. National Institutes of Health

5. WebMD

6. Postpartum Support International

7. National Library of Medicine

8. American Psychological Association

9. John Hopkins

10. WebMD

11. National Library of Medicine

12. Cleveland Clinic

13. National Library of Medicine

There are three main areas of treatment options for postpartum depression: therapy, antidepressants and other medications.¹

Therapy for Postpartum Depression

Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, is a recommended treatment for postpartum. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal psychotherapy are two examples of therapy that can be helpful.²

Antidepressants for Postpartum Depression

Antidepressants can be used to treat postpartum depression, similar to medications for major depressive disorder. Studies have shown very low levels of antidepressants will appear in breastmilk and it is not harmful to babies. However, discuss your options with your provider if you are breastfeeding.³

Commonly prescribed antidepressants for postpartum depression include:⁴

• Bupropion (Wellbutrin®)

• Escitalopram (Lexapro®)

• Fluoxetine (Prozac®)

• Paroxetine (Paxil®)

• Sertraline (Zoloft®)

• Amitriptyline (Elavil®)

Other Medications for Postpartum Depression

There are other FDA-approved medications for treating postpartum depression. The first medication approved specifically for postpartum depression was intravenous brexanolone, which is primarily reserved for severe cases.⁵ More recently, the FDA approved the oral medication neuroactive steroid gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), Zurzuvae™.⁶

Meditation and mindfulness practices have been shown to be helpful in managing the symptoms of postpartum depression.⁷

There are some nonmedication treatments and lifestyle changes that can be helpful in managing postpartum symptoms, including:⁸

• Healthy lifestyle choices. A nutritious diet, exercise and quality sleep can all help minimize postpartum depression symptoms.

• Set realistic expectations. The postpartum period holds many challenges. Focus on rest, healing and caring for yourself and the baby. Do not put pressure to bounce back or do more than you can.

• Make time for yourself. Try to get out of the house or get some alone time. Ask a partner, family member or friend if they can watch the baby so you can get a break.

• Ask for help. If you are struggling, talk to your loved ones about how you’re feeling. Seek professional help if you are exhibiting symptoms of postpartum depression. Isolation can make the situation worse.

You can get postpartum depression medication from a licensed medical provider or doctor. You can visit in-person or you can get medication online for postpartum depression with a telehealth provider like RedBox Rx. Start an online consult to see if medication is right for you.

1. Mayo Clinic

2. Mayo Clinic

3. WebMD

4. WebMD

5. National Library of Medicine

6. FDA

7. National Library of Medicine

8. Mayo Clinic