Postnatal, or postpartum, depression is a serious condition that affects 10 percent of new mothers, according to the Mayo Clinic. The symptoms of postnatal depression include crying; deep sadness; feelings of inadequacy or guilt; intense irritability; guilt; withdrawal from friends, family and normal life; fatigue; and appetite and sleep changes.

Biological Causes

A woman's body goes through many changes during pregnancy, many of them gradual over the nine months of pregnancy. Following birth, the body rapidly changes back to a pre-pregnant state in many ways. The levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone drop rapidly. The hormones produced by the thyroid gland may decrease sharply as well. Also, blood pressure and volume changes greatly, and the changes in the immune system and metabolism can all contribute to postnatal or postpartum depression.

Emotional Factors

New mothers are sleep-deprived and overwhelmed by all the responsibilities and changes in their lives. Anxieties about their ability to care for a new baby and the changes in their bodies and appearance may cause a drop in confidence. The huge changes in identity and the lack of personal time and space can lead to postnatal or postpartum depression.

Lifestyle Changes

Other causes of postnatal depression include a difficult-to-care infant, or one with colic, having older children to care for as well, difficulties with breastfeeding or lack of support from the partner or extended family.

Risk Factors

Mothers who have dealt with depression previously are more at risk for postpartum depression, as are those with family histories of depression. Those who were depressed, stress or anxious during pregnancy are also at increased risk for postnatal depression. Other problems, such as marital/relationship troubles, financial strain, substance abuse issues, other life stress factors like a new job, moving or death of a loved one, increase the likelihood of postpartum depression.

Warning

If a pregnant woman was prescribed medication for depression, it is imperative that she continue taking the medicine as directed. Sudden discontinuation of antidepressant medication can cause a return, or even a worsening, of symptoms following childbirth.

Source:

Mayo Clinic: Postpartum Depression-Causes

National Women's Health Information Center: Depression During and After Pregnancy