Postpartum depression (PPD) has drawn increased attention in recent years as people become more knowledgeable about the disorder. While it is a heartbreaking condition for families across the United States, and more discussion and research about it is beneficial, the rising rates of postpartum depression are not happening in a vacuum. Rather, they exist alongside a cultural devaluation of motherhood, which should be considered as a factor in the escalating cases.
Many women experience feelings of sadness after having a baby, which are typically called “baby blues,” and often dissipate during the first two weeks postpartum. However, postpartum depression is a lengthier and more serious mental health condition. According to postpartumdepression.org, around 10% of women will experience postpartum depression after delivering their babies. Additionally, a report from the CDC found that postpartum depressive symptoms occurred among 13.2% of respondents.
.png)
.png)
