Baby Blues vs. Postpartum Depression: What’s the Difference?
Almost every parent experiences intense emotions after their baby is born. Around 1 in 8 people who gives birth develops clinical postpartum depression (PPD), according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Natalie Feldman, MD is a Mass General Brigham psychiatrist who cares for patients at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Here, she explains the differences between the “baby blues” and postpartum depression, and which treatments can help.
Baby blues vs. PPD
Having a new baby is a major life transition. It can cause a range of new feelings and emotions. But just because you’re experiencing mood swings, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re developing a mood disorder like postpartum depression.
Both baby blues and PPD involve feelings of sadness around the time of childbirth, but there are differences. PPD is a condition defined by having feelings of sadness and mood changes during the weeks after birth. PPD is more severe and lasts longer than baby blues, and can make it difficult for new parents to care for themselves and their newborn.
“Emotional complications can happen throughout the perinatal period, not just after birth,” explains Dr. Feldman. “The perinatal period starts during pregnancy and continues up to 6 to 12 months postpartum.”
What are baby blues?
Baby blues are feelings of sadness that begin in the first few days after giving birth. Unlike PPD, the baby blues last for a brief period and don’t affect your ability to care for your baby. Doctors think they are caused in part by the hormonal shifts that happen in a birthing person’s body.
People who give birth are likely to experience the baby blues. In fact, up to 4 in 5 birthing parents experience symptoms of the baby blues.
Baby blues symptoms and signs
It’s worth noting that the symptoms of the baby blues can look a bit different from those of PPD.
“With baby blues, you’ll have more emotional ups and downs. PPD involves really persistent low mood and makes daily tasks difficult,” says Dr. Feldman.
Signs and symptoms of baby blues may include:
- Feelings of sadness or anxiety
- Bouts of crying
- Mood swings
- Feeling irritated or impatient
- Having trouble concentrating
- Changes to your appetite or sleep, even when your baby is resting
How long do baby blues last?
Baby blues last up to 2 weeks after a baby is born. If you continue feeling sad after this period, talk to your health care provider. You may be experiencing postpartum depression.
What causes postpartum depression?
Doctors don’t know the exact causes of PPD, but there are risk factors that can make someone more likely to develop it. They include:
- A personal history or family history of depression or perinatal depression
- A history of mood symptoms associated with menstruation
- Stressful life events during pregnancy, including having a high-risk pregnancy like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, or multiples (carrying more than one baby)
- Other medical conditions
- Drug or alcohol use
Postpartum depression symptoms and signs
Early signs of postpartum depression can be feeling persistently sad, hopeless, or overwhelmed—not just sometimes, but a lot of the time. They can include difficulty getting out of bed, taking care of yourself, or taking care of your baby. A close friend or partner may notice these early signs before you do.
Other PPD signs and symptoms can range from mild to severe and typically include:
- Fatigue (more than you would expect from just having a new baby)
- Trouble sleeping and eating
- Feelings of guilt and worthlessness
- Losing interest in things you used to enjoy
- Withdrawing from family and friends
- Little or no interest in your baby
- Thoughts of hurting yourself or your baby
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, talk to your primary care provider (PCP) or obstetrician-gynecologist (OB/GYN) right away. They can help you start a treatment plan.
How long does postpartum depression last?
There is no time limit to PPD or perinatal depression. What’s most important to know is that this condition will last longer if left untreated. It’s important for both you and your baby’s health to seek treatment as soon as possible.
Finding support and postpartum depression treatment
PPD treatment may include:
- Medications, such as antidepressants
- Psychotherapy or counseling with an individual or group therapist
- Psychosocial support, meaning help from peers, family, friends, or a support group
“Experiencing emotional complications after having a baby doesn’t mean you're a bad parent,” Dr. Feldman says. “And seeking help when you need it is the best way to care for your baby and your family.” The right treatment can help you feel better, be more engaged, and care for yourself and your growing family.