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Causes and Risk Factors

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By Editorial Team

3 min read

Becoming a parent is a transformative experience that can bring emotional challenges. While many parents feel joy and fulfillment after their child is born, many will face challenges, including developing postpartum depression (PPD).1,2

What is postpartum depression?

Postpartum depression is a mental health disorder that affects 1 in 7 parents, primarily mothers, after giving birth. It goes beyond the "baby blues," which are temporary feelings of sadness and loneliness that go away in the first few weeks after childbirth.1,2

PPD, on the other hand, is more severe and long-lasting. It often does not go away on its own. Therapy and medicine are highly recommended to treat PPD.1,2

PPD can affect how well a new parent cares for themselves and their newborn. Symptoms of PPD include:1,2

  • Extreme sadness
  • Hopelessness
  • Anxiety
  • Intrusive thoughts
  • Loss of pleasure in daily activities

Causes of postpartum depression

There is no single cause of PPD. Experts believe it to be a combination of physical, emotional, and social factors. Here are some key possible causes of PPD.2

Hormonal changes

The dramatic hormonal shifts that occur during pregnancy and childbirth can affect brain chemistry. This can lead to changes in mood. The swift drop in the hormones estrogen and progesterone after childbirth is one of the major causes of PPD.2

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Thyroid levels can also affect mood and bring on symptoms of PPD. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of your neck. It helps to balance hormone levels. If your thyroid levels are low, you may feel depressed.3

Genes

Genetics can play a role in PPD. If you have a history of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or another mental illness, your chances of having PPD after giving birth are about 30 to 35 percent higher. Having a family history of mental health disorders also can increase your chances of developing PPD.2-4

Emotional issues

Caring for a newborn is a difficult task. Many parents will feel stressed, anxious, or worried about this new chapter in their lives. This can cause emotional challenges, which can set you up for developing PPD.2

Risk factors of postpartum depression

In addition to the causes mentioned above, certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing PPD.2

History of PPD with a prior pregnancy

If you had postpartum depression with a prior pregnancy, you are more likely to have PPD again with a future pregnancy.1,2,5

Complicated pregnancy or childbirth

Health problems during pregnancy or a challenging childbirth experience, such as a C-section or premature birth, can increase the risk of PPD.1-3

Trouble with breastfeeding

When a mother has a hard time breastfeeding, it can add to their anxieties and worries. Difficulty breastfeeding can worsen PPD symptoms and may cause worries about the bond between mother and baby.3,6

Sleep deprivation

Newborns often disrupt parents' sleep patterns. This can lead to exhaustion and worsen feelings of depression, stress, and anxiety.5

Lack of social support

Limited emotional or practical support from family and friends can make it harder to meet the demands of parenting. Isolation, being a single parent, or limited help with childcare can make it more challenging to cope.2,3,5

Similarly, strained relationships with a partner or spouse can be a risk factor for PPD.2,3,5

Life stressors

Experiencing a traumatic event or significant life stressors during pregnancy or after childbirth may contribute to PPD.3,5

For example, having a baby with health problems or special needs adds a layer of stress to the parenthood experience. Stress can make new parents more prone to PPD.1-3

Financial worries or a lack of resources can also contribute to stress and anxiety, increasing the risk of PPD. And facing multiple life stressors at the same time, such as moving, changing jobs, or dealing with personal loss, can make it more likely for a parent to experience PPD.2,3,5

Unrealistic expectations

Unrealistic expectations about motherhood and the pressure to be a "perfect" parent can contribute to PPD. In fact, a 2022 study found that people who have perfectionist tendencies are more likely to have PPD.7

Get help

Postpartum depression is a challenging condition that affects many new parents. But the good news is that help and treatment are available. If you or someone you know has any of these symptoms, reach out to a healthcare provider, therapist, or support group.

You can also call or text 988, or chat online, to reach a crisis counselor with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. With the right resources and a strong support system, parents can navigate the challenges of PPD and enjoy the joys of parenthood.