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Post-Partum Depression
Alternate Names : Depression - Postpartum
Definition
The first month after a delivery (the post-partum period) is a time of major changes for women. Their hormones and weight are rapidly readjusting. There may be new and stressful changes in relationships with other children, the father of the baby, parents and in-laws, colleagues at work, and friends. Of course, the new baby needs almost constant attention and feeding every two hours, resulting in sleep deprivation. All of these factors can contribute to post-partum mood swings.
If the moodiness only lasts 2 -3 weeks and then goes away, it's commonly called the "baby blues". This natural reaction to stress is experienced by more than half of new mothers.
However, if the feelings of depression or anxiety continue more than three weeks, a more serious condition called post-partum depression may exist. About 10% of women experience significant depression after a pregnancy.
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
You have a higher chance of post-partum depression if:
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You had mood or anxiety disorders prior to pregnancy, including depression with a previous pregnancy
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You have a close family member who has had depression or anxiety
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Anything particularly stressful happened to you during the pregnancy, including illness, death or illness of a loved one, a difficult or emergency delivery, premature delivery, or illness or abnormality in the baby
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You are in your teens or over age 40
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The pregnancy is unwanted or unplanned
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You currently abuse alcohol, take illegal substances, or smoke -- these are also serious medical health risks for the baby
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Jump to another section
• Definition
• Post-Partum Depression Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Post-Partum Depression Symptoms & Signs
• Post-Partum Depression Prevention
• Post-Partum Depression Diagnosis & Tests
• Post-Partum Depression Treatment
• Post-Partum Depression Prognosis
• Post-Partum Depression Complications
• Post-Partum Depression Support Groups
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
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Review Date : 11/23/2003
Reviewed By : John Goldenring, M.D., MPH, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, San Diego, CA, and Angela Smyth, M.D., Department of Psychiatry, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL. Reviews provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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