Postpartum Depression
For most women having a baby is an exciting time. Although after childbirth, many mothers feel sad, angry, afraid, or anxious. Most new mothers, about 70-80% have these feeling in a mild form called postpartum blues or sometimes called "baby blues." The baby blues are a passing state of heightened emotions. Postpartum blues almost always go away in a few days.
About 10% of new mothers have a greater problem called postpartum depression. Postpartum depression is more intense and lasts longer. Women with postpartum depression have strong feelings of sadness, anxiety, trouble sleeping, tearfulness, fatigue, appitite problems, suididal thoughts or imparired concetration. It often requires counseling and treatment. Postpartum depression can occure after any birth, not just the first.
Find out more about Postpartum depression.