Early diagnosis and treatment of more severe postpartum psychiatric conditions, such as postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, and postpartum psychosis, are critical for improved outcomes in both the parent and child. Prognosis
Most mothers who develop postpartum blues experience complete resolution of symptoms by two weeks. However, a number of prospective studies have identified more severe postpartum blues as an independent risk factor for developing subsequent postpartum depression. More research is necessary to fully elucidate the association between postpartum blues and postpartum depression. Epidemiology
Postpartum blues is a very common condition, affecting around 50-80% of new mothers based on most sources. However, estimates of prevalence vary greatly in the literature, from 26 to 85%, depending on the criteria used. Precise rates are difficult to obtain given lack of standardized diagnostic criteria, inconsistency of presentation to medical care, and methodological limitations of retrospective reporting of symptoms. Evidence demonstrates that postpartum blues exists across a variety of countries and cultures, however there is considerable heterogeneity in reported prevalence rates. For instance, reports of prevalence of postpartum blues in the literature vary from 15% in Japan to 60% in Iran. Underreporting of symptoms due to cultural norms and expectations may be one explanation for this heterogeneity. Males

Literature is lacking on whether new fathers also experience postpartum blues. However, given similar causes of postpartum blues and postpartum depression in women, it may be relevant to examine rates of postpartum depression in men.
Duration
Postpartum blues may last a few days up to two weeks. If symptoms last more than two weeks, the individual must be evaluated for postpartum depression. Causes
The causes of postpartum blues have not been clearly established. Most hypotheses regarding the etiology of postpartum blues and postpartum depression center on the intersection of the significant biological and psychosocial changes that occur with childbirth. Psychosocial causes
Pregnancy and postpartum are significant life events that increase a womans vulnerability for postpartum blues. Even with a planned pregnancy, it is normal to have feelings of doubt or regret, and it takes time to adjust to having a newborn. Feelings commonly reported by new parents and lifestyle changes that may contribute to developing early postpartum mood symptoms include:
Fatigue after labor and delivery
Caring for a newborn that requires 24/7 attention
Sleep deprivation
Lack of support from family and friends
Marital or relationship strain
Changes in home and work routines
Financial stress
Unrealistic expectations of self
Societal or cultural pressure to "bounce back" quickly after pregnancy and childbirth
Overwhelmed and questioning ability to care for baby
Anger, loss, or guilt, especially for parents of premature or sick infants

Risk factors
Most risk factors studied have not clearly and consistently demonstrated an association with postpartum blues. These include sociodemographic factors, such as age and marital status, obstetric factors, such as delivery complications or low birth weight.Factors most consistently shown to be predictive of postpartum blues are personal and family history of depression.