![]() |
About Us | ![]() |
Patients, Families & Visitors | ![]() |
For Health Professionals | ![]() |
Careers | ![]() |
Research & Training | ![]() |
Ways to Give | ![]() |
---|
You may feel a wide range of changing emotions after giving birth. This is normal for most women. More than 80% of all new mothers feel sad or have "baby blues" after having a baby. The baby blues can start within a couple of days of birth and normally go away within two weeks without treatment.
These feelings will change with time. Love and support from your partner, friends, and family will help a great deal, so reach out to them. You also need to take good care of yourself, get plenty of rest, eat well, and talk about your feelings.
Postpartum Depression encompasses a broad range of emotions women may feel after the birth of a baby. Many new mothers may experience the “Baby Blues”. Up to 80% of moms, during the first few days or weeks, may express feelings of sadness, tearfulness, unwanted crying, sleeping problems, appetite disruptions, anxiety, and a feeling of general unhappiness.
The term Postpartum Depression (PPD) refers to unrelenting feelings of sadness, anxiety, and general unhappiness, lasting from 2-3 weeks after birth to a year later. PPD affects about 20% of new mothers. Some common signs of PPD include: loss of interest in usual activities, irritability, fatigue, sleeplessness, appetite change, inability to cope, panic attacks, and anxiety.
Postpartum Psychosis is the most severe form of the three conditions. This is a rare condition affecting 1-2% of women and is associated with a state of being ‘out of touch’ with reality. This condition is considered a MEDICAL EMERGENCY and treatment involving hospitalization and medication is necessary.
A WOMAN EXPERIENCING THESE SIGNS MAY HARM HERSELF OR HER BABY.
Signs a woman may be experiencing Postpartum Psychosis include: paranoia, delusions, hallucinations, confusion, anxiety, disorientation, and agitation.
*The exact cause is unknown, however, there is a strong link to a history of depression.
First and foremost, it is important to tell someone about your feelings. Talking to a health care professional will help connect you to the resources and treatments you need. A public health nurse can provide you with support over the phone if needed by calling (519) 850-2280. Some new mothers find it helpful to join a support group:
Other Suggestions for Helping to Relieve PPD Include:
:
Postpartum Depression HELPLINE: (519) 672-HOPE or (519) 672-4673