Depression after childbirth
डिलीवरी के बाद डिप्रेशन (पोस्टपार्टम डिप्रेशन)
Feeling tearful for a few days after delivery ("baby blues") is common and settles within about two weeks. When low mood, anxiety or exhaustion last longer or are severe, it may be postpartum depression.
It is not a failure as a mother. With treatment, mothers recover and bonding with the baby improves.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MBBS, MD Psychiatry
Common symptoms
- Persistent sadness, crying, feeling empty
- Anxiety, constant worry about the baby, panic
- Feeling unable to cope, guilt, feeling like a bad mother
- Not sleeping even when the baby sleeps
- Loss of interest, poor appetite, irritability
- Difficulty bonding with the baby
Causes
- Rapid hormonal changes after delivery combined with sleep loss
- Stress of new responsibilities, lack of support, relationship strain
- Complicated delivery or a baby who is unwell
Risk factors
- Depression or anxiety before or during pregnancy
- Previous postpartum depression; bipolar disorder in self or family
- Domestic violence, family pressure about the baby's gender, financial stress
How it is diagnosed
- Assessment of mood, anxiety, sleep and thoughts about self and baby, in a non-judgemental setting
- Checking thyroid, haemoglobin and other physical causes
- Urgently identifying postpartum psychosis (confusion, unusual beliefs, hearing voices) — a medical emergency
Classification: ICD-10 F53.0 · ICD-11 6E20Mental or behavioural disorders associated with pregnancy, childbirth or the puerperium, without psychotic symptoms.
Treatment options
- 1Counselling and practical support with sleep and baby care
- 2Antidepressants chosen to be compatible with breastfeeding when needed
- 3Close follow-up and coordination with the gynaecologist and paediatrician
Psychotherapy and counselling
- CBT and interpersonal therapy adapted for new mothers
- Mother–infant bonding support
Guidance for family
- Take over night feeds or baby care at times so that the mother can sleep
- Avoid criticism about feeding, weight or the baby's gender
- If she seems confused, hears voices or talks of harming herself or the baby, seek emergency help immediately
When to see a psychiatrist
- Low mood or anxiety lasting more than two weeks after delivery
- Unable to sleep, eat or care for self and baby
- Any thoughts of self-harm or harming the baby — emergency
Thoughts of self-harm or a medical emergency? Call Tele-MANAS 14416 (24×7, free) or 112.
Free self-assessment
A short screening in Hindi or English. Private — nothing is saved. Screening does not establish a diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take medicines while breastfeeding?
Several antidepressants are considered compatible with breastfeeding. The choice is made with you, weighing benefits and risks.
Does it mean I am a bad mother?
No. Postpartum depression is a medical condition and seeking help is a caring decision for you and your baby.
Can fathers get depressed after a baby is born?
Yes, fathers can also develop depression or anxiety after childbirth and can be helped.
Help is available — confidential, in Hindi or English.
Private video consultation from anywhere in India with an Ajmer-based psychiatrist. Psychiatry consultation ₹500.
This page is for education and does not replace a personal consultation. Do not start or stop any medicine without a doctor's advice.