Baby Blues, Postpartum Depression and Postpartum Psychosis

Abstract

Baby Blues, Postpartum Depression and Postpartum Psychosis are all related to being a new mother; however they are three very different types of depression. Baby Blues affect about eighty percent of new mothers; they are temporary lasting about a week and are considered a normal part of early motherhood. Postpartum Depression lasts longer and is more intense than the blues. Postpartum Psychosis is the most severe form of Postpartum Depression. It is very rare and requires immediate treatment.

Baby Blues, Postpartum Depression and Postpartum Psychosis

This paper shall examine Baby Blues, Postpartum Depression also known as PPD and postpartum Psychosis. I will discuss the differences between the three, warning signs and symptoms, ways of coping with the depression, treatment, and the long term affects on children of women who suffer from Postpartum Depression. I will also look at possible causes of postpartum depression and who is at a higher risk of developing the depression.

English: An American Lady butterfly against a clou...

Mother and child union, immediately after birth

Postpartum baby

Baby Blues

The "baby blues" affect about eighty percent of all new mothers. The blues usually occur within the first week after birth and often begin about the same time milk comes in. Some symptoms include the following:

-Feeling overwhelmed

-Crying easily

-Anxious or sad

-Exhausted

-Feeling a loss of control

-Lack of confidence and lack of appetite

Since the "baby blues" are temporary, rarely last longer than a week, medication and psychological help is not needed. The blues can be relieved by getting more rest and more sleep, by reducing the pain of sore breasts, perineum or incision and by being surrounded by friends and family who are supportive. The blues are considered a normal part of early motherhood (Simkin 2001).

Postpartum Depression

Motherhood is supposed to be a wonderful time in a women's life. However in many women, the birth of a child...