Congratulations! Your beautiful baby has arrived. This is seen as a wonderful, exciting time in your life. While most mothers feel this way, not all women do.

For 10 to 28% of mothers with new babies, this time can be very distressing. These women may experience postpartum depression (PPD). This is different from the baby blues that pass within a week or two, or the rare postpartum psychosis which may require hospitalization.

Women with PPD may experience a wide range of emotions that come on suddenly or develop slowly over the first three to nine months after delivery.

Signs & Symptoms of Postpartum Depression

Women with PPD may experience the following signs and symptoms:

• Uncontrollable crying that lasts for more than a week
• Inability to sleep or sleeping too much
• Feelings of guilt
• Loss of appetite or overeating
• Over concern for the baby or fear of harming the baby
• Feelings of loneliness, inadequacy or numbness
• Deep unexplained sorrow
• Feelings of helplessness and extreme fatigue
• panic attacks, confusion, inability to make decisions or concentrate
• Lack of interest in sex

What Causes Postpartum Depression?

Despite long-standing beliefs that changes in hormones are responsible for PPD, no hormonal abnormalities have been found. However, some researchers have suggested that rapid changes in levels of hormones such as estrogen, progesterone and thyroid have a strong effect on women's moods. Some women are undoubtedly more sensitive to changes in hormones than others.

Women often find it difficult to meet their high expectations of being the perfect mother. When women feel these expectations have not been met, they find it difficult to talk about their depression, which leaves them feeling lonely and isolated. Many women have experienced these feelings, and it is important to know that they are not alone. PPD affects the whole family - partner, children and grandparents.

Support & Help

The good news is that PPD is treatable with professional help and support. Supportive treatments include self-help groups, respite care and counselling. Antidepressants may also be used to reduce severe depression.

If you suspect that you or someone you know is experiencing postpartum depression, speak to your family doctor, public health nurse at Huron County Health Unit at 519.482.3416 or Toll Free at 1.877.837.6143) or Rural Response for Healthy Children at 519.482.8777 or Toll Free at 1.800,479.0716.