Postpartum depression

<B>Postpartum depression:</B> A form of severe depression after delivery that requires treatment.

It is sometimes said that postpartum depression (PPD) occurs within 4 weeks of delivery but it can happen a few days or even months after childbirth.

A woman with PPD may have feelings similar to the baby blues -- sadness, despair, anxiety, irritability -- but she feels them much more strongly than she would with the baby blues.

PPD often keeps her from doing the things she needs to do every day.

When a woman's ability to function is affected, this is a sure sign that she needs treatment.

If a woman does not get treatment for PPD, it can get worse and last for as long as a year.

While PPD is a serious condition, it can be effectively treated with antidepressant medications and counseling.