Understanding Postpartum Depression -- the Basics What is
Postpartum Depression? Postpartum depression (PPD) is temporary
depression related to pregnancy and childbirth. It comes in two
forms: early onset, commonly referred to as the "baby blues,"
and late onset. The early onset type is mild and may affect as
many as 80% of women after they deliver. It starts after
delivery and usually resolves within a couple of weeks without
medical treatment. The later onset form is what most people
think of as postpartum depression. This more severe form is
usually recognized several weeks after delivery. Overall, it
affects about 10%-16% of women. Symptoms of the "baby blues"
include sadness, anxiety, tearfulness, and trouble sleeping.
These symptoms usually appear within several days of delivery
and go away 10 to 12 days after the birth. Usually the only
treatment needed is reassurance and some help with household
chores and care of the baby. About 20% of women who have
postpartum blues will develop more lasting depress