| Mother2Mother Services |
| Education and Support for Nursing Mothers |
| Special Circum-stances: Depression |
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| Last Updated February 2, 2004 |
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| Depression |
| Many antidepressants are safe for nursing mothers. There is no reason for you to suffer from depression while nursing, or to give up nursing (which can make your depression even worse) in order to seek treatment. |
| Do you suspect -- or has someone mentioned the possibility to you -- that you may be suffering from postpartum depression (ppd)? If so, please do not be afraid to see your doctor. It is not a weakness. It doesn't make you a bad person. And seeing your doctor and getting proper treatment will help make you a better mom. This quiz and this one may help you decide if you need to seek professional advice. |
| Depending upon the definition used, it is believed that between 8-20% of women suffer from postpartum depression. This is somewhat more severe, and usually of slightly later onset (beginning as late as 1 year after delivery), than the typical "baby blues," experienced by as much as 75% of women after delivery. About 1/1000 moms develops the very severe condition, postpartum psychosis. |
| Additionally, there are non-medical interventions that have also been shown to help. Things as simple as a healthy diet, moderate exercise, dressing nicely, watching funny movies and taking walks in the sunshine have been shown to help mild cases of depression. Together, you and your doctor can decide what is the best course of treatment for you. |
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