Understanding Postpartum Depression

You’ve just had a baby. You expected to be excited and happy. But instead, you find yourself crying for no reason. You may have trouble coping with your daily tasks. You feel sad, tired, and hopeless most of the time. You may even feel ashamed or guilty. But what you’re going through is not your fault and you can feel better.

What is depression?

Depression is a mood disorder that affects the way you think and feel. The most common symptom is a feeling of deep sadness. You may feel as if you can't cope with life, take care of your baby, or even connect with your baby. Other symptoms include:

• Gaining or losing a lot of weight
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Feeling tired all the time
• Feeling restless
• Crying a lot
• Having too little or too much appetite
• Withdrawing from friends and family
• Having headaches, aches and pains, or stomach problems that won't go away
• Fears of harming your baby
• Lack of interest in your baby
• Feeling worthless or guilty
• No longer finding pleasure in the things you used to
• Having trouble thinking clearly or making decisions
• Thinking about death or suicide

You are not alone. Talk to your healthcare provider. He or she can help.

To learn more about postpartum depression visit our health library.

To make an appointment with one of our women's health specialists, call 504-276-2071.