What is Postpartum Depression (PPD)?
Postpartum depression, also called postatal depression, is a perinatal mood disorder that affects about one in eight women after giving birth (thus postpartum). It is a form of depresssion that can occur up to one year after delivery. A new mother with PPD may experience any of the symptoms associated with PMDs Most new mothers (60 percent to 80 percent) experience the baby blues, which involves feelings of sadness, anxiety, loneliness or moodiness that normally go away within a couple of weeks. If symptoms last longer, professional help is often necessary and a woman should see her healthcare provider.