Baby Blues… or Something More?
The birth of a child is an overwhelming experience. Around 50–80% of all women experience what is known as the “baby blues” — usually between the 3rd and 5th day after giving birth. During this time, women may feel mildly depressed, overly sensitive, emotionally unstable, and often cry for no apparent reason. The joy of having a baby is mixed with exhaustion and sleep deprivation from childbirth, combined with a drastic drop in hormone levels. This so-called “baby blues” phase typically resolves on its own within a few days and does not require treatment — unlike postpartum depression, which is a more severe and prolonged condition that does require medical attention.
About 10% (and in some studies up to 15–20%) of women develop postpartum depression. The symptoms vary, but typically include loss of motivation and pleasure, lack of interest, and a sense of being overwhelmed by daily life. After childbirth, these symptoms are often accompanied by excessive anxiety and worry about the baby’s well-being, fear of failure, feelings of being a bad mother, emotional numbness — even toward the baby — and intrusive thoughts. Many women also struggle with breastfeeding and experience pronounced mood swings.
Many women continue to function outwardly while suffering silently and do not seek help. They try to maintain a façade in public, among friends, family, and even with their partner. After all, they feel they should be happy and joyful about the baby. Out of shame, they hide their true feelings and feel guilty about their emptiness or negative thoughts. Most affected women don’t realize they are suffering from a treatable illness. Without help, the condition can persist and eventually lead to a complete breakdown.
To prevent this, early warning signs should be recognized not only by the mother herself but also by her partner, family, midwife, and us as physicians. Typically, we see new mothers only at the postpartum check-up around 6–8 weeks after delivery. The woman’s mental state should always be a topic of discussion at this appointment. Sometimes, however, depression has not yet developed at that point and may appear later. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us — even months after giving birth — if you feel you may be suffering from depression. We have both the responsibility and the means to support you, refer you to appropriate services, and help you recover.
Postpartum depression is usually treated through a combination of psychotherapy, social support (e.g., household assistance), and sometimes medication that is compatible with breastfeeding. It is also crucial to educate family members that depression is a common, treatable illness — not a sign that a mother doesn’t love her child enough or is a bad parent. For the well-being of all involved, professional help should always be sought.
The likelihood of developing postpartum depression again after a subsequent birth is around 50%. It is also relatively unknown that about 10% of fathers experience postpartum depression as well.
