Postpartum Depression: Symptoms, Causes and How to Intervene
Becoming a mother is a magical and long-awaited moment for many women. However, for some new mothers, this period can be accompanied by an unexpected shadow: postpartum depression . This is a mood disorder that can affect women in the period following childbirth, profoundly affecting their emotional and relational well-being.
But what is this depression due to and what are the symptoms to notice it? I'll explain everything in this complete guide on postpartum depression .
Postpartum depression is not the baby blues
Before we look at all the characteristics of postpartum depression, it is important to immediately clarify a fundamental distinction: baby blues are not depression. Baby blues are a very common condition, characterized by mood swings, irritability, and frequent crying, which occur in the first days or weeks after giving birth. These symptoms usually resolve spontaneously within two weeks.
Postpartum depression , on the other hand, is a more serious and persistent disorder, a real disease that must be treated. The symptoms are more intense and long-lasting and can significantly interfere with the daily life of the new mother and her family.