Post-Natal or Postpartum Depression (PPD)

Post-natal or postpartum depression occurs in 10-20 % of women after delivery. The rise in incidence of depression is often within 30 days postpartum and in severe cases may persist for up to 2 years. However, most episodes resolve spontaneously within 3-6 months after delivery. The symptom profile of a post-natal depression resembles that of a major depressive episode experienced at other times in life, but it is unique in its timing and in that it always involves at least the mother-baby dyad and usually an entire family unit.