You don’t have to go through this alone.
Need support? Explore resources designed to help you through every stage of postpartum.
RESOURCES
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OB-GYN or Midwife
Support for physical recovery, postpartum concerns, and emotional changes.
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Postpartum Therapist
Specialized mental health support for the emotional challenges of postpartum.
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Postpartum Doula
Practical and emotional support as families adjust to life with a new baby.
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Sleep Consultant
Guidance for infant sleep routines and helping families navigate sleep challenges.
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Couples or Family Therapist
Support for communication, relationship changes and navigating parenthood together.
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Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist
Support for postpartum recovery, pelvic health, strength, and physical healing.
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New Mom Support Groups
A space to connect with other parents who understand what you're going through.
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Lactation Consultant
Support with breastfeeding, pumping, feeding challenges, and feeding plans.
Not feeling like yourself? Learn the signs of postpartum depression and when it may be time to reach out for help.
getting help is the first step.
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a real and treatable medical condition, not a sign that you’re a bad mom or that you aren’t grateful for your baby.
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Everyone experiences postpartum depression differently. You may notice:
Feeling persistently sad, empty, anxious, or hopeless
Feeling unusually irritable, frustrated, or restless
Losing interest or pleasure in things you normally enjoy
Feeling exhausted or having very little energy
Feeling guilty, worthless, helpless, or like you're not doing enough
Having difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Changes in sleep or appetite
Feeling disconnected from your baby or having difficulty bonding
Persistent doubts about your ability to care for your baby
You don't need to experience every symptom to deserve support.
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Baby Blues
Often begin in the first few days after birth and may include tearfulness, worry, irritability, and feeling overwhelmed. They typically improve within about two weeks.Postpartum Depression
Symptoms tend to be more intense, last longer than two weeks, or make it difficult to function or care for yourself. PPD can happen at any point during the postpartum period and is treatable. -
Start by telling someone.
You can talk to your:
OB-GYN or midwife
Primary care provider
Therapist or mental-health professional
Partner, family member, or trusted friend
A healthcare professional can help determine what's going on and talk with you about treatment options. Treatment may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both.
You don't have to wait until things feel unbearable to ask for help.
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You can help by:
Listen without trying to fix everything.
Give her space to talk without judgment.Offer practical support.
Help with the baby, meals, chores, errands, or appointments.Encourage professional support.
If you're concerned, gently encourage her to talk with her healthcare provider.Keep checking in.
Support isn't just one conversation. Continue asking how she's doing and reminding her that she doesn't have to handle everything alone. -
If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, self-harm, or harming the baby, seek immediate help.
In the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7. If there is an immediate, life-threatening emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Postpartum psychosis is also a psychiatric emergency. Warning signs can include hallucinations, delusions, paranoia, severe confusion, or mania. Immediate emergency care is needed.
Pulse is an educational and supportive tool and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent postpartum depression or any other mental-health condition. If you are concerned about your mental health or symptoms, please speak with a qualified healthcare professional. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a mental-health emergency, call 911 or 988.
