Differentiating ‘postpartum blues’ from major depressive disorder
| Postpartum blues | Major depressive disorder |
|---|---|
| Can occur in up to 75% of women | Occurs in up to 20% of women |
| Resolves by day 10 postpartum | Peaks at 3 months postpartum but can extend to up to 12 months |
| Typical symptoms include mood lability, tearfulness, irritability, confusion, and fatigue | Symptoms include low mood or loss of interest or pleasure in normally pleasurable activities for at least 2 weeks in addition to other diagnostic criteria for major depressive disorder |
| Responds well to support, reassurance, and adequate sleep | Treatment often involves both pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic therapy |