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  1. UAMS Health
  2. Conditions
  3. Postpartum Depression

Condition: Postpartum Depression

Also called: PPD;

Postpartum depression (PPD) is temporary depression, often called the “baby blues,” that some women feel after giving childbirth. It is common for mothers to experience a feeling of sadness soon after giving birth. However, postpartum depression is a more severe, life-affecting sadness that may require attention from a health care professional.

Postpartum depression can be experienced in two forms: early-onset and late-onset. Early-onset is mild, more common, may last a couple of weeks and does not require medication. Late-onset usually occurs several weeks to six months after delivery and is not as common as early-onset.

Causes and Symptoms

Postpartum depression is often characterized by the following symptoms, although each person may experience symptoms differently:

  • Sadness
  • Anxiety
  • Fatigue or exhaustion
  • Poor concentration
  • Confusion
  • A fear of harming the newborn or yourself
  • Mood swings
  • Diminished sex drive
  • Feelings of guilt
  • Uncontrolled crying
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in life
  • Over-concern for the newborn and/or a lack of interest for the newborn
  • Appetite changes
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Feelings of resentment
  • Memory loss
  • Feelings of isolation
  • Feelings of hopelessness

Women who are at highest risk for postpartum depression include:

  • Those with a history of depression, anxiety disorders or alcohol abuse
  • Those with a history of moderate to severe premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
  • Those who have trouble sleeping
  • Those who have unrealistic ideas about motherhood
  • Those who have an unwanted pregnancy
  • Those who experience a stressful life event such as the death of a loved one, a family illness or work difficulties
  • Those who lack emotional support from a partner or experience conflict with a partner
  • Those who have low self-esteem
  • Those who have a newborn with physical or behavioral problems

The exact cause of postpartum depression is unknown. However, it is believed that the hormone level changes that occur during and after pregnancy may produce chemical changes in the brain to make women more susceptible to depression.

Addressing Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression is usually treated, like other types of depression, with counseling and medication. Counseling may involve talking with a therapist about how depression makes you think, act and feel. Medication is usually given to those with severe cases of postpartum depression. Some antidepressant medications can harm your baby if you are breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor about which medicine is safe to take.

There are also steps you can take to help manage and overcome postpartum depression symptoms. These include:

  • Find a companion you can share your feelings with or find a local support group.
  • Get in touch with someone who can help take on some of your daily duties, such as childcare, household chores and errands.
  • Set aside at least 30 minutes a day to do something for yourself.
  • Keep a diary where you write down your emotions.

Contents

  • Resources
  • Providers
  • Locations
  • Areas of Expertise
  • Make an Appointment

Resources Related to Postpartum Depression

Postpartum Depression (Article)

Premature delivery, hormone changes in your body, lack of good sleep, and anxiety about your baby can put you at risk for postpartum depression.

Read the Article

Providers Diagnosing or Treating Postpartum Depression

Note that every provider listed below may not perform or prescribe all treatments or procedures related to Postpartum Depression. Review each provider for availability.

Filter the Providers


Joel R. Dickens, M.D.

Joel R. Dickens, M.D. Obstetrician/Gynecologist

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William W.  'Sam' Greenfield, M.D.

William W. "Sam" Greenfield, M.D. Obstetrician/Gynecologist

View Profile
Laura L. Hollenbach, M.D.

Laura L. Hollenbach, M.D. Obstetrician/Gynecologist

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Kristina M. Jones, M.D.

Kristina M. Jones, M.D. Obstetrician/Gynecologist

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Morgan M. Knight, M.D.

Morgan M. Knight, M.D. Obstetrician/Gynecologist

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Nirvana A. Manning, M.D.

Nirvana A. Manning, M.D. Obstetrician/Gynecologist

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Renee P. McGraw, M.D.

Renee P. McGraw, M.D. Obstetrician/Gynecologist

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Lettie A. Odom, M.D.

Lettie A. Odom, M.D. Obstetrician/Gynecologist

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Amy M. Phillips, M.D.

Amy M. Phillips, M.D. Obstetrician/Gynecologist

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Mary Luann Racher, M.D.

Mary Luann Racher, M.D. Obstetrician/Gynecologist

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Shona L. Ray-Griffith, M.D.

Shona L. Ray-Griffith, M.D. Psychiatrist

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Dora Mah Smith, M.D.

Dora Mah Smith, M.D. Obstetrician/Gynecologist

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Michael V. Smith, M.D.

Michael V. Smith, M.D. Obstetrician/Gynecologist

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Kathryn C. Stambough, M.D.

Kathryn C. Stambough, M.D. Obstetrician/Gynecologist

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Lindsey B. Sward, M.D.

Lindsey B. Sward, M.D. Obstetrician/Gynecologist

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Chad B. Taylor, M.D.

Chad B. Taylor, M.D. Obstetrician/Gynecologist

View Profile

Locations Where Providers Treat Postpartum Depression

Note that the treatment of Postpartum Depression may not be performed at every location listed below. The list may include locations where the treatment plan is developed during and after a patient visit.

Filter the Locations


Psychiatric Research Institute

Women’s Mental Health Clinic

4224 Shuffield Drive
UAMS Psychiatric Research Institute
Little Rock, AR 72205

Appointment Phone Number
501-526-8201
New and Returning Patients
View Location Get Directions

Areas of Expertise for Postpartum Depression

Behavioral Health

Behavioral health care at UAMS Health includes a wide range of outpatient and inpatient services.

View Area of Expertise
Mother and child at UAMS

Obstetrics (Part of Women's Health)

For decades, women have come to UAMS Health for complete pregnancy care. We've cared for generations of Arkansans and we are here for you and your baby.

View Area of Expertise

Make an Appointment

Request an appointment by contacting a clinic directly or by calling the UAMS Health appointment line at (501) 686-8000.

UAMS Health LogoUAMS HealthUniversity of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Mailing Address: 4301 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR 72205
Phone: (501) 686-7000
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