Postpartum Depression (PPD) can be very isolating and often misunderstood. Somehow or another the most joyous experience of life just isn't. The baby blues are a very common part of childbirth and generally only last a few weeks. The mothers affected usually respond to reassurance, empathy and rest, but an estimated 10 percent of new mothers will suffer more severe symptoms lasting much longer than the typical baby blues, constituting true PPD.

PPD is part of a range of psychological symptoms that usually occur within the first year after childbirth. Feelings of hopelessness, helplessness and sadness prevail. Dr. Paula Schreck, the medical director of breastfeeding support services at St. John Hospital and Medical Center in Detroit, Mich., says the exact cause of PPD is not known. "The cause of PPD is uncertain, although the dramatic and sudden drop in estrogen and progesterone after delivery most likely contributes to the disease," she says. "However, the postpartum period is a time of unique stress, making emotional factors likely contributors."

Clinical psychologist Rosalind Dorlen believes the issue is so important she is working on the state of New Jersey's PPD awareness initiative along with New Jersey's First Lady, Mary Jo Codey. Dorlen believes that women are more susceptible to depression when their children are babies than at any other time in their life. "With the surging tide of postpartum hormones, sleep deprivation, persistent noise, changing body image, role in life and loss of control of one's own time, it is not surprising that so many women suffer from postpartum depression, even with a brand-new bundle of joy in the home," she says.

The good news about PPD is that it responds well to a range of treatments including psychotherapy, medication and support groups – or a combination of the three. Another little known fact about PPD is that breastfeeding may have a positive impact on the depression itself, both hormonally and emotionally. "Breastfeeding can certainly have an impact on postpartum depression," says Dorlen. "In fact, it may have a positive influence on mothers who are experiencing PPD. Oxytocin, which is one of the hormones that is released while breastfeeding, has been found to help women who are coping with depression."

Content on this site is not a substitute for professional medical or healthcare advice, diagnosis or treatment, and may not be used for such purposes. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical question or condition. Reliance on information presented on this site is at your own risk. This site contains the opinions and views of other users. Given the interactive nature of this site, we cannot endorse, guarantee, or be responsible for the accuracy, efficacy, or veracity of any content generated by our users.