Postpartum Depression
Risk factors and symptoms

Post partum depression can occur without any risk factors. Addionally, symptoms can occur immediately following childbirth or can grow gradually over a period of months.

Risk factors of Postpartum Depression:
The risk for postpartum depression is higher in women with a:

• Post partum depression can occur without any risk factors. Addionally, symptoms can occur immediately following childbirth or can grow gradually over a period of months.
• History of prior postpartum depression
• History of depression or bipolar disorder during or before pregnancy
• History of severe PMS (premenstrual syndrome)
• Family history of depression or bipolar disorder 
• Recent stressful events such as marital or partner discord, loss of loved one, family illness

Symptoms of Postpartum Depression:
• Strong feeling of sadness, anxiety, or irritability
• Emotional stress which interferes with taking care of self or family
• Tearfulness
• Trouble motivating oneself to do normal everyday tasks
• Diminished interest in food (or compulsive overeating)
• Diminished interest in self-grooming (dressing, bathing, fixing hair)
• Sleeping too much or inability to sleep when tired
• Trouble concentrating, making decisions, remembering things
• Loss of pleasure or interest in things which used to be fun or interesting
• Overly intense worries about the baby
• Lack of interest in the new baby
• Fear of harming the baby
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide