In the first few days after delivering a baby, about 80% of new mothers experience a drop in hormones that result in “the baby blues”. That goes away. If after a birth, miscarriage or other pregnancy change, there is an episode of agitation, insomnia, dread, anxiety, crying, loss of energy and appetite, and/or suicidal thoughts, that may last from weeks to months, it may be post partum depression. Sometimes there is a marked anxiety about or need to be away from the baby. Observers may notice that the mother seems unable or uninterested in caring for the baby. Sometimes, the mother may feel or show unsafe behavior towards her baby.

Who is more likely to develop post partum depression?

Women who have had previous depression, post partum or otherwise, women with hormonal difficulties such as PMS, thyroid problems, with Bipolar disorder and/or relationship problems or other stressors may be more at risk. Women with an unplanned or unwanted pregnancy may be more at risk. About 13% of mothers develop post partum depression.

What can happen?

The depression may worsen until the mother may begin having hallucinations or delusions. She may think that voices are telling her to harm the baby or to do other things that are not safe. She will need medical or psychiatric help right away.

How is it treated?

Usually with psychotherapy and antidepressants depending on whether the mother is breast-feeding. Some women may exhibit symptoms even before they deliver. Some women may have symptoms more than a year after the birth. The decision to use prescription medications will depend on the medication and the potential risk to a nursing baby weighed against the need to protect the mother’s health and well-being. Occasionally, a woman may have a severe case of Post Partum Depression that requires brief hospitalization.

What should I do if the mother doesn’t realize she is showing these behaviors?

Perhaps you would want to contact her doctor and let them know your concerns. If there is an urgent issue where a child was at risk or a mother was suicidal or homicidal, you would call 911 or attempt to get her to an emergency room.

Some of the same symptoms of Post Partum Depression can be seen in any sudden hormonal changes, such as in adolescence and at menopause. Many women experience an increase in mood changes in the first few days of or just before their menstrual cycle. Some women experience relief from high quality liquid calcium supplements just before those days.

Discuss your concerns with a therapist

National Child Abuse Hotline: 800-422-4453
National Suicide Hotline: 800-273-8255