postpartum depression

American  

[pohst-pahrtuhm di-presh-uhn] / ˈpoʊstˌpɑrtəm dɪˈprɛʃ ən /

noun

1. Psychiatry. clinical depression in a mother, beginning shortly after giving birth and typically lasting from weeks to months, due partly to the hormonal disruption caused by childbirth and the psychological challenge posed by the sudden change in role and identity: characterized variously by withdrawal, low self-image, failure to bond with one’s infant, lack of motivation, feelings of guilt, etc.

---

Etymology

Origin of postpartum depression

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

postpartum depression

On Wednesday, Morissette appeared on the “Call Her Daddy” podcast and told host Alex Cooper that she experienced postpartum depression after giving birth to each of children, and that the condition worsened each time.

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 11, 2026

"I ultimately hope that there is more advocacy for postpartum depression and psychosis."

From Barron's ● Aug. 28, 2026

While postpartum psychosis is rare, conditions like postpartum depression and anxiety are common, occurring in around one in six new mothers.

From Salon ● Aug. 26, 2026

But no revelation is as courageous or groundbreaking as Panettiere’s description of her experience with postpartum depression.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 18, 2026

She had probably had postpartum depression at the very least, Mia realized, perhaps even a postpartum psychotic break.

From "Little Fires Everywhere" by Celeste Ng