Postpartum depression affects about 14% of women and generally begins about 4-6 weeks after delivery

Postpartum depression affects about 14% of women and generally begins about 4-6 weeks after delivery, not right away, as thought by many. Although it is thought of as a women's disorder, 10% of new fathers suffer from postpartum depression though it's often not recognized as such when it arises. The symptoms are similar in both sexes, but the causes in men may be sudden and unexpected lifestyle changes.


Risk factors include a history of depression, stressful life events, a lack of social support, low self-esteem, anxiety or stress during pregnancy. A new mom may also experience mood swings, sadness, irritability, crying, poor concentration, and trouble sleeping. In some women, symptoms worsen dramatically to include loss of appetite, insomnia, intense irritability and anger, overwhelming fatigue, loss of interest in sex, feelings of shame or inadequacy, severe mood swings, and a hard time bonding with the baby. In extreme cases, there may be withdrawal from family and friends, and thoughts of self-harm or harming the baby.


One of the major causes of postpartum depression in women is the dramatic drop in estrogen and progesterone which occur after childbirth as well as the drop in those hormones produced by the thyroid gland, which make you feel tired, sluggish and depressed. In addition, when anyone has a lack of sleep and is overwhelmed with life changes, depression may easily occur. Some women feel anxious about their ability to care for a newborn or feel less attractive or struggle with a changing identity that motherhood causes. If untreated, a father's postpartum depression can be just as harmful to the child and to both parents as children born into such families receive less attention from the depressed parent and are at a higher risk for developing a variety of problems.In a situation of post-partum depression, see your doctor about medications such as Prozac or Zoloft which may be helpful during this time to help you feel better sooner.



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