Editor’s Note: For simplicity and ease of reading, in this community, we use the term “mothers” to refer to pregnant people and those who have given birth. But we want to acknowledge that not all people who can get pregnant identify as women and that some people who give birth identify as men or nonbinary. We also recognize that parenthood exists in many forms, including adoptive and foster parenthood. Health Union strives to create an inclusive space while providing accurate health information.
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a form of depression that affects some women after childbirth. Postpartum depression differs from the “baby blues,” which typically go away 1 to 2 weeks after childbirth. PPD may cause feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness, anxiety, intrusive thoughts (upsetting thoughts that seem strange or outside your usual), and a loss of pleasure in everyday life. These symptoms can last for many weeks or months if left untreated.1,2
Postpartum depression is a common and serious condition. But the good news is that it is treatable.1
Postpartum depression statistics
PPD is more common than many people realize. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), PPD affects about 15 percent of new mothers in the United States. In half of all cases, it is a person’s first experience of depression. And about half of women with depression symptoms during pregnancy have a higher likelihood of having PPD after giving birth.1-3
The symptoms of PPD can range from person to person. The most serious symptom of PPD is having thoughts of self-harm or suicide. Data show that suicide may account for up to 1 in 5 deaths among mothers.4
Who is at increased risk?
Depression is one of the most common serious complications of pregnancy and childbirth. It is possible to develop PPD whether you are a new parent or have already had children.1,4,5
Many factors can cause postpartum depression. These factors may include genetics, changing hormone levels, and a history of depression. And having certain risk factors can make people more likely to develop PPD. These risk factors include:3,5
- Being a single mother
- History or family history of depression
- Lower income level
- Lower education level
- Unstable living conditions
- Stressful life events, including pregnancy complications
- History of domestic violence
- Isolation and lack of support
Rates of undiagnosed PPD
Undiagnosed cases of PPD remain a big concern, largely due to stigma and lack of awareness. In the United States, 50 to 70 percent of PPD cases go undetected and undiagnosed. And 85 percent of cases go untreated.4
Many new mothers suffer in silence, never receiving the support and treatment they need. The reasons behind this issue are complex. They can include:2,4,5
- Lack of screening – Routine PPD screening is not a standard of care in the United States, which allows many cases to go unnoticed.
- Stigma and shame – Society often places a lot of pressure on new mothers to appear happy and fulfilled. The fear of being judged or seen as failing can prevent women from sharing what they are going through or seeking help.
- Lack of awareness – Some women may not even be aware that what they are experiencing is postpartum depression. They might chalk it up to "baby blues" or think it is just a natural part of motherhood.
- Minimizing symptoms – Some women may downplay their symptoms, thinking that they should be able to handle everything on their own. This can delay diagnosis and treatment.
- Barriers to care – In some cases, limited access to healthcare or mental health services can prevent early diagnosis.
Early detection is crucial
Addressing postpartum depression depends on early diagnosis and treatment. Regular check-ups with healthcare providers who are attentive to maternal mental health can lead to early detection. These providers can screen for symptoms and provide referrals to mental health specialists if needed.1,3-5
The importance of raising awareness
The stigma around PPD can have devastating effects. It isolates parents who are already struggling, which can lead to increased feelings of loneliness and hopelessness. Breaking this stigma is crucial for the well-being of both parents and their children.1,2,4
One way to break the stigma is through open and honest conversations about postpartum depression. All parents should feel safe discussing their feelings without fear of judgment. Support groups, online forums, and educational campaigns can play a large role in reversing the stigma around PPD.1,4