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Postpartum Depression

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 3, 2024.

What is postpartum depression (PPD)?

PPD is a mood disorder that causes feelings of sadness or hopelessness that do not go away. PPD occurs after your baby is born. Your symptoms may last up to 12 months after delivery. Your symptoms may become severe and affect your daily activities and relationships.

What are the symptoms of PPD?

What increases my risk for PPD?

The exact cause is not known. Any of the following may increase your risk:

How is PPD diagnosed?

Healthcare providers will talk to you about how you are feeling and ask if you have any symptoms of depression. These talks can happen during appointments for your medical care and for your baby's care, such as well child visits. Talk to your providers about the following:

How is PPD treated?

Treatment options

The following list of medications are in some way related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

View more treatment options

What can I do to manage PPD?

It may take a few weeks to feel better. Be patient with yourself. The following can help you manage your symptoms:

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

Call your doctor if:

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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Learn more about Postpartum Depression

Treatment options

Symptoms and treatments

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.