Managing postpartum depression

Why treat postpartum depression?

Postpartum depression affects both you and your baby. It interferes with your ability to function normally, including caring for and bonding with your baby. Babies of depressed mothers tend to lag behind developmentally in behaviour and mental ability.²

On average, untreated postpartum depression lasts 7 months and can continue for at least a year.² With treatment, symptoms improve much more quickly.³ Antidepressant medication and counselling have proven to be equally effective, and some medications are judged to be safe for use during breast-feeding.

Test Your Knowledge

1. I'll get along just fine if I wait out postpartum depression.

1. False
2. True

Continue to How is postpartum depression treated?
Return to Managing postpartum depression

Author:	Kathe Gallagher, MSW Carrie Henley	Last Updated: August 22, 2006
Medical Review:	Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine Tom Bailey, MD - Family Medicine Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry
© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.