Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a variation of clinical depression that occurs after childbirth, typically within the first few weeks to months, and can last up to a year or longer. Also known as postnatal depression, it is a serious mental health and mood disorder that can happen to anyone who has recently given birth, regardless of whether it is their first pregnancy. Despite its seriousness, research suggests as much as half of new mothers with PPD go undiagnosed.Lack of education, misconceptions, and social stigma prevent women from seeking treatment, and even those diagnosed forgo treatment for various reasons. This course takes a closer look at postpartum depression, its causes, risk factors, and differences from major depression. This course also discusses how patients with PPD can seek help, current treatment options, and nursing considerations for the best health outcomes.