Articles (EN)

Postpartum depression: signs and help

2026-05-27 12:00 Childbirth
In short: postpartum depression is a common and treatable condition that occurs in 10-15% of mothers. This is not weakness or a "bad mother" - this is a medical diagnosis. For symptoms that last longer than 2 weeks, it is important to see a doctor.

What is postpartum depression

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a depressive disorder that develops after childbirth, usually in the first 4-6 weeks, but can also begin later - up to a year after the birth of the child.
PPD should not be confused with "baby blues": slight sadness, tearfulness and irritability in the first 1-2 weeks occurs in 50-80% of women and goes away on its own. PPD is a longer and more severe condition.

Signs of postpartum depression

Symptoms of PPD that last longer than 2 weeks:
  • A persistent feeling of sadness, emptiness, hopelessness.
  • Loss of interest and pleasure from activities that you used to enjoy.
  • Severe fatigue that does not go away after rest.
  • Sleep disorders (not only due to the child): insomnia or, conversely, constant drowsiness.
  • Change in appetite.
  • Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions.
  • Feeling like you're a "bad mother," guilt, and shame.
  • Alienation from the child, partner, loved ones.
  • Thoughts of death or self-harm.

Causes of postpartum depression

PPD is the result of the interaction of biological, psychological and social factors:
  • Hormonal changes: after childbirth, the level of estrogen and progesterone drops sharply - this affects neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine).
  • Lack of sleep: Chronic sleep deprivation is a powerful trigger for depression.
  • Difficulties with lactation and a feeling of "failure" in motherhood.
  • Loneliness and isolation: maternity leave often means a loss of social role and support.
  • History of depression or anxiety disorders.
  • A traumatic birth or a cesarean experience that was not desired.

The difference between PPD and baby blues and postpartum psychosis

  • Baby blues: the first 1-2 weeks, mild, goes away on its own. It requires support, rest and understanding.
  • PPD: lasts more than 2 weeks, interferes with taking care of yourself and your child. Requires professional help.
  • Postpartum psychosis: rare (0.1–0.2%) and very severe condition – hallucinations, delusions, acute confusion. Requires emergency psychiatric care.

Treatment of postpartum depression

PPD responds well to treatment. Options:
Psychotherapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy are methods with proven efficacy in PPD.
Antidepressants: A number of antidepressants (SSRIs) are allowed while breastfeeding – your doctor will find a safe option. There is no need to choose between treatment and breastfeeding.
Support: support groups for new mothers, the help of a partner with night feedings and household chores are an important part of treatment.

How to support a mom with PPD

If you are a partner, relative, or friend:
  • Do not say "smile, you have such a beautiful baby" – this devalues suffering.
  • Offer specific help: "I will bring dinner", "I will sit with the baby for 2 hours".
  • Listen without advice or evaluation.
  • Gently but persistently help me see a doctor.

Prevention

It is impossible to completely prevent PPD, but the risk is reduced by:
  • Good support from your partner and family.
  • Realistic expectations from motherhood.
  • Division of night duty.
  • Consultation with a psychologist in the presence of anxiety or depression in anamnesis - preferably during pregnancy.

When to see a doctor

Do not wait "until it goes away by itself". Consult a doctor (therapist, psychiatrist, gynecologist) if:
  • symptoms of depression last more than 2 weeks;
  • You can't take care of yourself or your child.
  • If you have thoughts of suicide or harm to the child – this is an emergency, call the psychological help hotline or 112.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can dads develop PPD?

Yes. Postpartum depression in fathers occurs in 4-10% of cases. The symptoms are similar, but more often disguised as irritability and withdrawal to work. Support is also important for men.

Will PPD go away without treatment?

For some, yes, but it can take a year or more. Without treatment, PPD affects the development of the child, family relationships and the mental health of the mother. Treatment significantly speeds up recovery.

Antidepressants – not addictive?

Modern antidepressants (SSRIs) are not addictive. The course of treatment is usually 6-12 months, after which the drug is gradually discontinued under medical supervision.

Conclusion

Postpartum depression is not a sign of weakness or poor motherhood. It is a medical condition with understandable causes and effective treatments. Asking for help is the right thing to do. You deserve support – not just your baby.

Bibliography

  1. WHO. Maternal mental health. 2022. https://www.who.int/teams/mental-health-and-substance-use/promotion-prevention/perinatal-mental-health
  2. ACOG Committee Opinion No. 757. Screening for Perinatal Depression. Obstet Gynecol. 2018.
  3. NICE guideline CG192. Antenatal and postnatal mental health. 2014 (updated 2020). https://www.who.int/teams/mental-health-and-substance-use/promotion-prevention/perinatal-mental-health
  4. O'Hara MW, Wisner KL. Perinatal mental illness: definition, description and aetiology. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol. 2014. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24140480/
  5. Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation. Clinical guidelines: Depressive episode. 2021. https://cr.minzdrav.gov.ru/
This material is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice and is not a substitute for medical advice. If a child's sleep is accompanied by alarming symptoms, a pronounced deterioration in health, problems with breathing, feeding or weight gain, it is necessary to consult a qualified medical specialist as soon as possible, and not rely only on information from the Internet.