Postpartum Depression What is Postpartum Depression (PPD) ? Postpartum depression is depression that occurs shortly after birth and lasts longer than 3 to 4 weeks. This is different from baby blues which are considered normal, lasting 2 to 3 weeks then disappearing. No specific cause of PPD has been found. Hormone imbalance and sleep deprivation are thought to play roles. Level of hormones: estrogen, progesterone, cortisol and possibly thyroid levels fall dramatically 48 hours after delivery. Who is affected? PPD occurs in 10-20% of women, usually within a few months after delivery. The intensity of symptoms can cause a mother's inability to care for herself and her baby. Known risk factors Prior pregnancy loss   Depression and/or anxiety prior and/or during pregnancy  Family history of PPD   Prior PPD with other pregnancies   Social/Personal issues (marital discord, unemployment, poor social support) Symptoms of PPD Persistence and/or increased "baby blues"   Loss of appetite  Feelings of sadness, guilt, doubt, shame or helplessness increase   Increased feelings of depression, anxiety and anger   Lack of desire to pursue anything pleasurable   Difficulty with normal care of herself and baby   Overly concerned and worried about baby   Lack of bonding, particularly anxiety and panic attacks that cause her to be afraid of being left along with bab   Fears and thoughts about harming her baby. These feelings are almost never acted on but they are very terrifying and shaming   Thoughts of abandoning family, baby, self harm or suicide What to do? First and foremost contact your OB-GYN to discuss symptoms and treatment! Reproductive Passages is a So. Redondo Beach multi-disciplinary center that uses both eastern and western methods to treat PPD. They use psychotherapy, acupuncture, herbs and referrals for antidepressant medications. Also, please see their questionnaire on their website regarding PPD. www.reproductivepassages.com