By Kaveri S. Patel, D.O.

The arrival of a newborn is generally a joyous occasion. However, it can also represent a time of increased stress and difficulty for mothers transitioning into their new roles.

Up to 80 percent of new mothers experience a transient condition known as postpartum blues, or “baby blues,” just after delivery. For some women, however, the symptoms intensify and lead to postpartum depression from the time of delivery until a year or so afterward.

Rapid hormonal changes, the physical and emotional stresses of delivery, anxiety, and fatigue and sleep deprivation can all contribute to postpartum blues.

Postpartum blues

The following symptoms of postpartum blues may peak on the fifth day after delivery, and they typically are resolved within two weeks:

• abrupt mood swings from happiness to sadness

• tearfulness and crying spells that occur for no apparent reason

• anxiety

• irritability

• decreased concentration

• insomnia

Treatment for postpartum blues is focused on providing support for the mother and her family, as well as offering reassurance that her feelings are normal and experienced by many other women. Mothers should make time for adequate sleep and rest, eat a well-balanced diet and allow others to care for the baby at night, if possible.

Postpartum depression

Unlike postpartum blues, postpartum depression lasts longer than two weeks. It occurs in at least 15 percent of new moms. This percentage is on the low side because the condition often goes undiagnosed.

Postpartum depression can occur for a variety of reasons, including the abrupt withdrawal of estrogen and progesterone levels after birth. There are many other risk factors, such as personal history of depression, marital conflict, stress and social isolation.

Symptoms of postpartum depression can include:

• insomnia or excessive sleep

• fatigue

• change in appetite resulting in weight loss or gain

• loss of interest or pleasure in life

• decreased sex drive

• excessive worry or anxiety

• intense irritability and anger

• a sense of being overwhelmed or unable to care for the baby

• difficulty making decisions

• not bonding with the baby, leading to feelings of shame and guilt

Mothers suffering from postpartum depression may have thoughts about harming themselves or their babies. If this occurs, women should seek immediate help from a physician.

Left untreated, postpartum depression can have adverse outcomes. For example, the partner may also become depressed, or the mother may be unable to bond with her infant, leading to future child-development issues.

For more information, visit www.postpartum.net, www.womensmentalhealth.org, www.ppdsupportpage.com or call the Bay Area Postpartum Depression Stress Line at (888) 678-2669.

The Palo Alto Medical Foundation and column editor Arian Dasmalchi provide information for this monthly column.