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Postpartum Depression Raises Concern as Experts Urge Earlier Care
Having a baby can bring big changes to a mother's body and feelings.
Some mothers feel a little down for a few days, and this usually passes within about two weeks.
Postpartum depression lasts longer or makes everyday life very hard.
It can cause sadness, worry, anger, trouble sleeping, or difficulty caring for the baby.
Sometimes a mother may feel unsafe or think about hurting herself or the baby.
These feelings are a health problem, not a sign that someone is a bad mother.
Doctors can help with counselling, medicine, or both.
Families should listen and help mothers get care early.
Postpartum depression can arise during pregnancy or after childbirth and differs from short-lived baby blues.
Experts describe symptoms including persistent sadness, anxiety, irritability, exhaustion, difficulty bonding, and thoughts of self-harm or harming the baby.
A 2025 National Journal of Community Medicine study reports higher prevalence among older women than younger mothers.
The article cites research indicating that 20% of expectant and new mothers in India experience sadness and anxiety, while 44% of women with postpartum depression receive delayed psychiatric care.
Doctors recommend timely evaluation, appropriate therapy or medication, routine screening, and support for mothers and families.
- Who
- Mothers experiencing postpartum depression, their families and caregivers, and the doctors quoted in the article.
- What
- The article discusses postpartum depression, its warning signs, risks, treatment, and the need for earlier recognition and care.
- Where
- The article discusses India and refers to cases in Bengaluru and Boston.
- When
- During pregnancy or after childbirth; a cited study was published in 2025.
- Why
- The condition may be overlooked or mistaken for normal adjustment to motherhood, while delayed care can leave mothers and babies without needed support.
Key facts
- Condition
- Postpartum depression (PPD), which can develop during pregnancy or after childbirth.
- Difference from baby blues
- Baby blues generally resolve within about two weeks; PPD involves persistent symptoms.
- Prevalence cited
- Dr Preeti Rastogi says PPD affects approximately one in seven women around pregnancy and the postpartum period.
- India survey finding
- A National Mental Health Survey found that 20% of expectant and new mothers in India experience sadness and anxiety.
- Delayed care
- A NIMHANS study found that 44% of women with postpartum depression receive delayed psychiatric care.
- Treatment
- Depending on symptoms and safety needs, care may include psychotherapy, medication, or both; treatment choices should be discussed with a doctor.
- Urgent warning signs
- Thoughts of suicide or harm, severe confusion, hallucinations, delusions, or extreme agitation require urgent attention.
Quotes
Dr Preeti Rastogi
Senior director and head of obstetrics and gynaecology at Medanta Gurugram
“For milder symptoms, counselling or psychotherapy may be recommended. For moderate or severe depression, medication may be considered, sometimes along with therapy. The choice is individual and takes into account the mother’s symptoms, medical history, previous treatment and breastfeeding status”
financialexpress.com
“Postpartum depression (PPD) is a clinically significant form of depression that can develop during pregnancy or after childbirth. It is different from the temporary ‘baby blues’, which are common in the first few days after delivery and generally resolve within about two weeks”
financialexpress.com
Sources
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