postpartum

American  

[pohst-pahr-tuhm] / poʊstˈpɑr təm /

adjective

1. of or noting the period of time following childbirth; after delivery.

   I suffered from postpartum depression with my first child.

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adverb

1. in the period of time following childbirth; after delivery.

   Her passion as a physiotherapist is motivating women to regain their strength and fitness postpartum.

postpartum British  

/ pəʊstˈpɑːtəm /

adjective

1. med following childbirth

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Etymology

Origin of postpartum

First recorded in 1840–50; from New Latin post partum “after childbirth”; post post- + partum, accusative of partus “a bringing forth,” equivalent to par(ere) “to bear ” ( parturient ) + -tus suffix of verbal action

Example Sentences

Diagnosed with OCD and postpartum psychosis tendencies after giving birth, Sofii said she had "no idea" how unwell she was.

From BBC • Mar. 21, 2026

“It’s often misattributed to postpartum depression,” says lactation consultant Allison Alexander.

From Slate • Mar. 15, 2026

We can’t control how a person handles postpartum depression.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 12, 2026

It includes ranking protection during pregnancy, postpartum support with a return to play and paid maternity leave.

From Barron's • Feb. 3, 2026

The inability of many poor women to get adequate health care, including prenatal and postpartum care, has been a serious problem in this country for decades.

From "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson