What should you know about symptoms of postpartum depression?

Postpartum depression may begin during pregnancy or after a baby is born. Symptoms can include sadness or emptiness, irritability, loss of pleasure, constant self-criticism, frightening worries, poor concentration, exhaustion and changes in sleep or appetite beyond what newborn care explains. Some parents feel detached from the baby or believe they are failing. Low sexual desire can also occur, but it is only one possible symptom. [Low Mood After Birth](/symptoms/postnatal-low-mood/) describes a related concern. These experiences are medical symptoms, not evidence of poor parenting.

Tell a trusted person and arrange an assessment with a doctor, midwife or mental-health professional. Write down when symptoms started, how they affect feeding or sleep, and whether anxiety or unwanted thoughts are present. Accept practical help with meals, rest and baby care where possible. Treatment may include talking therapy, peer support or medication chosen with attention to breastfeeding and your health. [Perinatal Mental Health Support](/treatments/medical-gynaecology/perinatal-mental-health-support/) can explain available care.

Seek urgent help now if you might harm yourself or the baby, hear or see things others do not, feel detached from reality, or cannot keep yourself or the baby safe. Ask someone to stay with you and contact emergency services or the nearest emergency department. Do not wait for symptoms to pass or manage a safety crisis alone.

Ask how your symptoms fit postnatal depression, whether another condition could contribute, which treatments are suitable while breastfeeding, how quickly support can begin, and what to do if frightening thoughts become stronger. Mention changes in intimacy, including [Low Sex Drive](/symptoms/low-sex-drive/), if they are troubling you.