User:Mr. Ibrahem/Postpartum blues
Medical condition / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Postpartum blues, also known as baby blues, is the normal onset of sadness shortly after childbirth.[2][5] Other symptoms may include anxiety, restlessness, irritability, tearfulness, poor appetite, and trouble sleeping.[1][7] Symptoms are not severe and do not affect functioning.[7][6] Onset is generally within a few days after birth and can last up to two weeks.[2]
Postpartum blues | |
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Other names | Baby blues, maternity blues |
Postpartum depression venus, a representation of the loss and emptiness felt after childbirth. | |
Specialty | Psychiatry, obstetrics |
Symptoms | Low mood, restlessness, irritability, tearfulness[1] |
Usual onset | Within days of childbirth[2] |
Duration | Up to 2 weeks[2] |
Risk factors | Lack of support, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, history of depression[3][4][5] |
Differential diagnosis | Postpartum depression, hypothyroidism[2][6] |
Treatment | Supportive[2] |
Medication | No medication indicated[7] |
Prognosis | Self-limited[6] |
Frequency | 50% to 85%[8] |
While the underlying cause is unclear, it is believed to be related to hormone changes and the stress of delivery.[1][3][4] Risk factors may include lack of support, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and a history of depression in the person themselves or their family.[3][4][5] If symptoms are more severe or last longer than two weeks, postpartum depression should be considered.[2]
Treatment is supportive, including reassurance, adequate sleep, emotional support, and exercise.[2][9] Complications may include subsequent major depression.[4] Between 50% and 80% of mothers are affected.[2][8] Partners may experience similar symptoms in about 10% of cases.[2] Those in the Western world may be more commonly affected.[3] The condition was first described in 1952.[9]