A Q and A on Postpartum Depression

Depression that begins during pregnancy or in the year after giving birth, lasting longer and feeling heavier than the short-lived "baby blues."

Key takeaways

• Baby blues: very common; usually ease within about 2 weeks of birth
• Postpartum depression: about 1 in 8 people who recently gave birth report symptoms, per CDC
• Most useful single change: Tell your obstetric provider, your primary care doctor or your baby's pediatrician how you are feeling; any of them can start the conversation.
• Commonest mistake: Waiting for symptoms that last more than 2 weeks to go away on their own.
• See a doctor if any of the signs under "When to speak to a doctor" below apply to you.

What is Postpartum Depression?

Depression that begins during pregnancy or in the year after giving birth, lasting longer and feeling heavier than the short-lived "baby blues."

Why does it matter?

It is common and treatable, but it often goes unreported, and untreated depression affects the parent's health, bonding and the baby's development.

Baby blues for Postpartum Depression?

Very common; usually ease within about 2 weeks of birth.

Postpartum depression for Postpartum Depression?

About 1 in 8 people who recently gave birth report symptoms, per CDC.

When it can start for Postpartum Depression?

During pregnancy or any time in the first year after birth.

National Maternal Mental Health Hotline for Postpartum Depression?

1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262), call or text, 24/7, free and confidential.

What is the single most useful thing to do?

Tell your obstetric provider, your primary care doctor or your baby's pediatrician how you are feeling; any of them can start the conversation.

What is the most common mistake?

Waiting for symptoms that last more than 2 weeks to go away on their own.

When should I see a doctor?

See your doctor if low mood, anxiety, trouble bonding, hopelessness or being unable to sleep even when the baby sleeps lasts more than 2 weeks. If you have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, call or text 988 or call 911 now; call 911 also for confusion, seeing or hearing things that are not there, or severe agitation.

More questions, answered

Do intrusive thoughts mean I will hurt my baby?

Unwanted, frightening thoughts about harm coming to the baby are common with perinatal anxiety and obsessive-compulsive symptoms. They usually cause great distress precisely because they go against what you want. Telling your provider is safe and allows you to get effective treatment.

Will my baby be taken away if I say I am depressed?

Seeking help for depression is not a reason for child protective services to become involved. Providers want to help you recover and care for your baby. Your safety and your baby's safety are the focus, and treatment supports both.

Can postpartum depression start months after birth?

Yes. It can begin any time in the first year, including when returning to work, weaning or as sleep deprivation builds. Symptoms that appear later deserve the same attention.

What is postpartum psychosis?

It is a rare but serious emergency, usually starting in the first weeks after birth, with confusion, rapidly changing mood, hallucinations, paranoia or strange beliefs. It needs immediate care: call 911 or go to the ER.

Does breastfeeding cause or prevent depression?

Breastfeeding difficulties can add stress, and some people find feeding helps them bond. Neither guarantees or prevents depression. Feeding decisions should support your mental health, and your provider can help find treatment that works with your choice.

How long does treatment take?

Many people notice improvement within weeks of starting therapy or medicine. Treatment often continues for months after feeling better to reduce the chance of relapse. Your provider will plan this with you.

Related topics

• The Evidence on Hormones and Mood, Without the Hype (Thyroid and Hormones)
• The Evidence on Men and Mental Health, Without the Hype (Men's Health)
• Teen Mental Health and 988: What Published Guidance Supports (Teen Health)
• The Evidence on Low Mood and Depression, Without the Hype (Mental Health)

Where to go next

• Postpartum Depression for Beginners: Where to Start
• Postpartum Depression: The Quick Reference
• Postpartum Depression — the reference entry
• Pregnancy and Postpartum: The Complete Guide
• The Evidence on Breastfeeding Basics, Without the Hype
• What the Guidance Really Says About Postpartum Checkups

When to speak to a doctor

See your doctor if low mood, anxiety, trouble bonding, hopelessness or being unable to sleep even when the baby sleeps lasts more than 2 weeks. If you have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, call or text 988 or call 911 now; call 911 also for confusion, seeing or hearing things that are not there, or severe agitation.

Where this comes from

• National Institute of Mental Health — Perinatal Depression
• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists — Postpartum Depression
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — Get Help

How this page was put together

Every figure, recommendation and warning above is taken from the guidance named in Where this comes from. Nothing on this page is inferred, summarized or generalized beyond what those bodies publish: where they give a number, it is their number, and where they are silent, so are we. Pages are rebuilt whenever the underlying record changes. Sign-off by a named clinician, where it has happened, is shown at the top of the page along with the date.

Medical disclaimer

This article is general information, not medical advice. It cannot account for your own history, medication or circumstances. Always speak to your doctor, pharmacist or another qualified health professional before making changes that affect your treatment, and never delay seeking medical advice because of something you have read here. In an emergency, call 911.