About 10 percent of new mothers have postnatal depression, also called postpartum depression, according to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). The National Institutes of Health (NIH) adds that the symptoms of postnatal depression start within four weeks after giving birth. Postnatal depression is different from the "baby blues," in which the woman has sadness, anxiety and irritability a few days after delivery, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Trouble with Newborn
A woman with postnatal depression has a hard time bonding with her newborn. For example, she may not take care of herself and the baby. She may overly worry about her newborn, or have a lack of interest in him after the birth. The woman may even have fears that she will harm her baby. The ACOG notes that these thoughts are rarely acted upon, but can make the postnatal depression worse. The mother will feel guilty that she could think these things about her child, which can exacerbate her depression symptoms.
Mood Changes
A new mother with postnatal depression will also have a significant change in mood. The ACOG states that an indicator of postnatal depression includes the "baby blues" not going away after a week or strong depression and anger occurring one to two months after giving birth. She can also have anxiety or panic attacks. The Mayo Clinic adds that the woman can have feelings of shame or guilt, or have a lack of joy in her life. She can also have severe mood swings. The NIH notes that most of the signs of postnatal depression resemble those found in major depression.
Other Indicators
Postnatal depression can also impair the woman's ability to function. One indicator includes the woman having trouble completing tasks at work or at her job, according to the ACOG. She may have changes in her appetite and a loss of pleasure in her daily activities. A new mother may also have thoughts of harming herself. The Mayo Clinic adds that other indicators of postnatal depression include overwhelming fatigue, loss of interest in sex and withdrawal from loved ones.
