Depression in mothers in their months after childbirth has come up as a major maternal and child health issue. About 1 in 7 women giving birth encounter postpartum depression, which typically starts one or two weeks following childbirth. Postpartum depression is a serious disorder, and not the same as the ‘baby blues’, which is a lot milder. Symptoms range from sadness, changes in sleeping and eating patterns, diminished libido, crying episodes, irritability and anxiety. While “baby blues” is much more common, the symptoms of this disorder, which usually happen within the first few days after childbirth, are much less severe and don’t require treatment. Postpartum depression (PPD) can take place up to a year following giving birth, is much more serious, and needs treatment from a healthcare professional.
