November 21, 2008

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Postpartum Depression (cont.)

Postpartum Depression Symptoms

Symptoms usually appear any time from 24 hours to a few months after delivery.

  • If you have these, it is important to see a health care provider, who will look for other conditions that can cause similar symptoms.

    • Sad mood, frequent crying

    • Lack of pleasure or interest in activities that once gave pleasure

    • Sleep disturbance

    • Weight loss

    • Loss of energy

    • Agitation or anxiety

    • Feelings of worthlessness or guilt

    • Trouble concentrating or making decisions

    • Thoughts of death or suicide

    • Decreased interest in sex

    • Feelings of rejection

  • Physical symptoms such as frequent headaches, chest pain, rapid heart beat, numbness, shakiness or dizziness, and mild shortness of breath suggest anxiety. Postpartum anxiety disorder is a separate disorder from postpartum depression, but the two often occur together.

  • See the introduction to this article for symptoms specific to each type of postpartum depression.



Next: When to Seek Medical Care »

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