What it means
A mood disorder that is deeper and lasts longer than the "baby blues". The baby blues, mild tearfulness and mood swings, start a few days after birth and fade within about two weeks. Postpartum depression brings ongoing sadness, loss of interest, anxiety, guilt, trouble sleeping even when the baby sleeps, and trouble caring for oneself or the baby. It is common and treatable.
For the nurse
Screen with a tool such as the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, ask directly about thoughts of harming oneself or the baby, and teach families the warning signs. Thoughts of harm need urgent help.
At a glance
| Spanish | depresión posparto |
|---|---|
| Also written | postpartum-depression |
Related terms
postpartum
The time after giving birth, usually the first six weeks, while the body returns to its non-pregnant state.
support group
A group of people with the same health problem or life experience who meet to share feelings, advice and encouragement.
childbirth
The process of giving birth to a baby, through the vagina or by cesarean surgery.