Postpartum Depression: Signs to look for and what to do

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Q: Is postpartum depression common? What are some signs that I can look for and how is it treated?

A: Postpartum depression is very common, affecting up to 20 percent of mothers. Maternity blues, which is milder, affects up to 70 percent of women after delivery. Risk factors include a personal history of depression, family history of depression, poor social situations and prolonged separation from the newborn. Symptoms include feeling sad, scared, anxious or worried for no reason. Additional indicators include frequent crying, difficulty sleeping, a poor appetite and thoughts of harming oneself or others.

Dr. Nicole Chainakul, OB/Gyn, Dr. Stephanie Hall, OB/Gyn

If you feel you have symptoms of postpartum depression, you should make an appointment with your physician. It is typically treated with common antidepressants. We frequently recommend counseling.