Signs and Symptoms of
Post Partum Depression (PPD)?
What you, your family and friends should be aware of.
Postpartum Depression (PPD) refers to a major depressive episode that occurs usually about 4 weeks after delivery. How long it lasts is different for every woman - some women feel better in a few weeks, whereas others may feel depressed for months. Most women with PPD have symptoms for more than 6 months, and if untreated, 25% of patients are still depressed a year later. Women who have a history of depression may have PPD even longer.

Postpartum Depression or moderate depression disorder is more disabeling than the baby blues, however this form of postpartum depression occurs less frequently than the baby blues ranging from 30 to 200 cases per 1000 births (3-20%). Depression may occur at any time after delivery, up to one year. The symptoms may last from a few weeks to several months.

Symptoms include but are not limited to;
� Headaches
� numbness, tingling in limbs,
� chest pain, heart palpitations,
� hyperventilation,
� despondency or despair,
� inability to cope, hopelessness,
� over concern for baby�s health,
� impaired memory or concentration,
� loss of normal interests,
� thoughts of suicide,
� bizarre or strange thoughts,
� panic attacks
� new fears, nightmares,
� extreme guilt,
� no feelings for baby,
� over concern for baby,
� feeling �out of control�,
� feeling like you are �going crazy�

Some of the symptoms of PPD - especially sleep problems, weight fluctuations, low energy, and difficulty concentrating - occur normally after childbirth. To distinguish between normal feelings and behaviors following pregnancy and childbirth from those that might signal PPD, at least five of the symptoms of PPD must be present during a 2-week period. Also, at least one of the symptoms must be either depressed mood or a significantly diminished interest or pleasure in nearly all activities. Please check with your doctor immediately if you feel something is wrong. If your doctor won't listen to you, find one who will!
Did you know that new dads can experience Post Partum Depression too?
New fathers also may experience PPD and are more likely to experience PPD if they are:
� with a partner who's depressed
� ending their relationship with the mother
� unemployed
� poorly educated
� socially isolated
� under severe stress
� in a physically aggressive relationship with the new mother
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