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.

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Etymology

Origin of postpartum depression

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

postpartum depression

That summer, Shiver had an abortion and told Moore that she went to a hospital to be treated for postpartum depression, according to the firm’s findings.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 14, 2026

The researchers say these discoveries help fill an important gap in knowledge about women's biology and could eventually improve care for mothers, including efforts to prevent and treat postpartum depression.

From Science Daily ● Jul. 11, 2026

Along the way, it also tackles darker aspects - abortions, miscarriages and postpartum depression.

From BBC ● Jul. 9, 2026

Distinct from postpartum depression and the baby blues, conditions that are pervasive and persistent, D-MER is episodic, flaring and disappearing within minutes, completely related to the act of breastfeeding.

From Slate ● Mar. 15, 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