The following are some quick guidelines about the differences between postpartum depression and Baby blues

Differences

Postpartum Blues

-approx 80% of women experience

-Occur days after birth and may last up to 6 wks

-Mood changes

-Uncontrolled crying

-Unexplained Sadness

-Anxiety

-Lack of focus

Postpartum Depression

-Symptoms occur from 2-6 wks postpartum and can last up to 2 years

-Similar symptoms as postpartum blues but more severe

-No interest in caring for the baby

-Not getting any pleasure in life

-loss of appetite

-obsessive thoughts about newborn

-feelings of worthlessness and inadequacy

McKee, Geoffrey R. (2006). Why Mothers Kill A Forensic Psychologist’s Casebook. New York: Oxford University Press.

Ross, Lori E, PhD., Dennis, Cindy-Lee, PhD. (2009). The Prevalence of Postpartum Depression among Women with Substance Use, and Abuse History, or Chronic Illness: A Systemic Review. Journal of Women’s Health, 18, 4, 475-486.

U.S. Department of Health, Office of Women’s Health (2009, March). Depression During and After Pregnancy. Retreived September 12, 2009, from http://www.womenshealth.gov/faq/depression-pregnancy.pdf

Zauderer, Cheryl, MS, RN, CNM, NPP (2009). Postpartum Depression: How Childbirth Educators Can Help Break the Silence. The Journal of Perinatal Education, 18, 2, 23-31.