While the birth of a new baby is a happy occasion, many women experience post partum within two years after the birth of a baby. Although 80% of parents have what is called “baby blues,” which is characterized by occasional tearfulness and feeling overwhelmed, these moods are temporary, and are not actual post partum depression. The symptoms of post partum are quite similar to those of regular depression, except that post- partum deals with the specific circumstance of having a baby. While it is said that some men experience post partum as well as women, 5 to 25% of mothers will experience post partum at some point of their lives. Those who have a history of or are in certain circumstances are more likely to experience post partum than other mothers. There are many treatment options available for the problem, but women who are breastfeeding may not be able to take certain medications. Doctors may prescribe alternative treatments.

The signs of post partum are similar to other types of depression. Sadness is a symptom but it is not like ordinary sadness or moodiness. Negative thoughts become obsessive and are characterized by feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. The mother feels as if she is trapped, and at the same time, experiences unjustified guilt feelings and low-self esteem. She may sleep very little or excessively, and her eating patterns may change dramatically. She may neglect personal hygiene and have a feeling that she may harm herself or her baby. It is very important that a woman who is suffering from post partum seek help immediately, and that close family members are alerted to the problem. It is essential that a baby bond wit his or her mother at an early age, and since post partum can interfere with bonding, a mother should seek treatment for the problem.

Just the circumstances involved in having a baby can set a woman up for post partum depression, especially if she has a predisposition for or a history

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