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A new mother experiencing postpartum depression.

Postpartum depression

Welcoming a new baby brings about many life changes. We’re here to help.

Postpartum depression

Major life changes, such as having a baby, can be exciting — and unsettling. Add shifting hormones to the mix, and it’s not surprising that many women get “baby blues” for a week or two after giving birth.

But what if baby blues don’t go away — or get worse?

If your baby blues last longer than two weeks after you give birth, you might have postpartum depression. And postpartum depression doesn’t just affect new or first-time moms. It can impact new dads, too. In fact, up to 10 percent of dads with newborns will have symptoms.

Understanding postpartum depression is the first step toward getting treatment that can help you feel better — for yourself, your baby and everyone who cares about you.

What is postpartum depression?

Postpartum depression is a serious form of depression. While it can develop any time during the first year after your baby’s birth, most new moms (and dads) will feel symptoms during the first three weeks after their baby is born.

And it doesn’t just affect first-time parents. You might’ve felt fine after the birth of your first or second child, but not your third or fourth. So, don’t think, “That doesn’t happen to me.” If you don’t feel right, seek treatment.

What causes postpartum depression?

Postpartum depression has several possible root causes including:

  • Hormones. Your hormone levels rise when you’re pregnant and drop suddenly after you give birth. This change can trigger baby blues and depression.
  • Family history of depression.
  • Stress. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and overly tired, are having issues with your family or partner, or major sources of stress in your life, these may contribute to postpartum depression.

Any mom or dad with a newborn can experience postpartum depression, but symptoms may be more likely to develop if you:

  • Have a history of depression or were depressed after a previous pregnancy.
  • Have a baby with health problems or other special needs.
  • Are struggling with your relationship or having financial problems.
  • Lack help from family or a support system.
Women share their story regarding postpartum depression.

To get completely real and raw with you…”

Two women share their experiences with postpartum depression.


Hear their stories

Signs and symptoms of postpartum depression

Unlike baby blues, symptoms of postpartum depression are more intense and last longer than two weeks. They may even interfere with your ability to complete daily tasks or care for your baby.

Signs and symptoms may include:

  • Anxiety and/or panic attacks
  • Depressed mood
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Excessive crying
  • Fatigue 
  • Feelings of worthlessness
  • Hopelessness
  • Intense irritability 
  • Lack of interest in or difficulty bonding with your baby
  • Lack of sleep or too much sleep
  • Sadness
  • Severe mood swings
  • Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
  • Weight loss or gain
  • Withdrawing from friends and family

Postpartum depression treatment

If you feel depressed after the birth of your baby or are worried about developing postpartum depression, see your doctor as soon as possible. With prompt treatment, you can start feeling better.

During postnatal care (or care after childbirth), your doctor or healthcare provider will screen you regularly for signs and symptoms to make sure you get the treatment you need. If you have a history of depression, your doctor may suggest starting medication or counseling after you give birth.

Treatment options include:

  • Medication. Your provider may prescribe an antidepressant. Most antidepressants are safe to take while nursing, but tell your doctor if you’re breastfeeding.
  • Counseling. A psychologist or therapist can help you work through stress, issues or negative thoughts and help you deal with them in a better way.

Other things that may help you feel better:

  • Letting family and friends help you
  • Setting realistic goals
  • Getting regular exercise
  • Getting as much rest and healthy food as possible

And keep in mind that postpartum depression isn’t a character flaw. It’s a medical condition — and one that can be treated. Don’t be afraid to speak up and get help.

Postpartum care at Geisinger

If you’re pregnant, your Geisinger care team will start routinely screening you for postpartum depression before you even give birth. We’ll identify if you’re at risk and create a treatment plan if needed.

The most common screening tool is the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, which is effective at screening for depression and anxiety during pregnancy and after you give birth. The screening takes less than 5 minutes and can help open the conversation between you and your provider.

Resources for help

If you have postpartum depression, you aren’t alone. And help is always available. Find resources below: 

Talk to our team today to schedule an appointment

Call 800-275-6401 and say “women’s services.” 
Call for an appointment
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