Postpartum depression
Abbreviation: PPD
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a clinical mood disorder that can develop any time in the first year after giving birth. It goes well beyond the short-lived baby blues and involves persistent sadness, loss of interest in things you normally enjoy, exhaustion that does not improve with rest, difficulty bonding with your baby, and sometimes feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness. Hormonal shifts, sleep deprivation, and major life changes all contribute. PPD is not a sign of weakness or bad parenting. It is a medical condition, and it responds well to therapy, support groups, and when needed, medication that is safe while breastfeeding.
What This Means for You
Understanding Postpartum depression is an important part of your postpartum journey. Keeping this in mind as you read, attend appointments, and connect with other parents will help you feel more prepared and less overwhelmed.
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KKH and NUH both offer specialist perinatal mental health services. If low mood has lasted more than two weeks or is interfering with daily life, ask your gynaecologist or polyclinic doctor for a referral rather than waiting to feel better on your own.
Related Terms
Source: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/dictionary
Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice.
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