How to Tell If It’s Baby Blues or Postpartum Depression
- Doctor Anywhere Team
- 1 day ago
- 5 min read
Updated: 6 hours ago
The journey of womanhood is marked by profound physical and emotional changes. One of the most profound milestones in that journey is childbirth. It is often described as joyful and life-changing, and it truly is. But alongside the happiness of welcoming a baby, many mothers also experience emotional ups and downs that can feel unexpected, confusing, and even overwhelming.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 10-20% of women worldwide experience mental health conditions during pregnancy or after childbirth. Postpartum depression is one of the most common complications of childbirth, yet it remains widely misunderstood and sometimes dismissed as “normal hormones.”
To help clarify the difference between baby blues and postpartum depression, we spoke with Dr. Almira Cunanan, one of Doctor Anywhere’s General Practitioners.
What Are “Baby Blues”?
Dr. Almira explains that emotional changes after giving birth are very common.
“Giving birth is one of the joys of being a woman. But along with that joy, especially for first-time mothers, there is fear and uncertainty, particularly when you are still learning what to do.”
She describes baby blues as a short adjustment phase.
“You call it baby blues when, within one to two weeks after giving birth, you feel sad, emotional, or overwhelmed. You may feel like you no longer have time for yourself and that all your attention goes to your baby.”
Common signs of baby blues include:
Frequent crying
Mood swings
Irritability
Feeling overwhelmed
Mild anxiety
Dr. Almira reassures mothers, “You are not abnormal for feeling that way. You have to allow yourself to adjust to this new phase of life.”
Baby blues typically improve within two weeks as the mother adjusts to her routine and hormonal levels begin to stabilize. According to the Mayo Clinic and Dove Medical Press’ International Journal of Women’s Health, baby blues affect 75-80% of new mothers and usually resolve on their own without medical treatment.
When Does It Become Postpartum Depression?
While baby blues are temporary, postpartum depression (PPD) is more serious and longer-lasting.
Dr. Almira explains, “We consider it something more serious when the symptoms persist beyond two weeks and instead of improving, they become worse.”
Warning signs of postpartum depression include:
Persistent sadness or hopelessness
Loss of interest in caring for the baby or oneself
Neglecting personal hygiene
Severe anxiety or constant worrying
Feeling like you are a bad mother
Loss of interest in daily activities
Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
“The most important warning sign is having thoughts of hurting yourself or your baby,” Dr. Almira emphasizes.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that postpartum depression can begin anytime within the first year after childbirth and may require therapy, medication, or both. It is not a sign of weakness, and it is not something a mother can simply “snap out of.”
Why Many Mothers Don’t Speak Up
One of the biggest challenges with postpartum depression is silence.
“Some patients feel these symptoms but, out-of-fear of being judged, they do not express them. Because of that, the condition worsens,” Dr. Almira shares.
She adds, “The bravest thing you can do is not only recognize it, but accept it and ask for help.”
In the Philippines, maternal mental health awareness is growing, but stigma remains. The Department of Health (DOH) encourages early consultation and emphasizes that mental health is just as important as physical health, especially during the postpartum period.
When Should You Seek Help?
If symptoms:
Last longer than two weeks
Interfere with daily functioning
Affect your ability to care for yourself or your baby
Include thoughts of self-harm
It is important to seek medical attention immediately.
Postpartum depression is treatable. With proper medical support, counseling, medication (if needed), and strong family support, most mothers recover fully.
A Gentle Reminder For Moms
Motherhood is beautiful, but it is also demanding. Emotional struggles after childbirth do not make you weak, ungrateful, or incapable. They make you human. Let’s check in on new mothers, not just about the baby, but about how they are doing.
If you or someone you love is experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression, consult a trusted healthcare provider. Doctor Anywhere offers accessible online consultations to help mothers receive guidance and support in a safe, confidential space.
Doctor Anywhere general practitioners are available 24/7, even on weekends and holidays, with an average waiting time of less than five minutes. You can also book appointments with specialists, including ob-gyn, and mental health experts, all from the comfort of your home.
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Sources:
1. Dr. Cunanan, Almira. Interviewed on February 19, 2025.
5. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/postpartum-depression/symptoms-causes/syc-20376617
ABOUT THE EXPERT
Dr. Almira M. Alvez-Cunanan, PTRP, MD, DPCLM, is a physician at Doctor Anywhere Philippines, specializing in lifestyle medicine, occupational health and safety, and family and community medicine. She also practices at Alvez-Cunanan Family Care Clinic, and Mandaluyong City Medical Center.
Dr. Cunanan earned her medical degree from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila and is a Diplomate of the Philippine College of Lifestyle Medicine, and a certified primary care family physician. She brings additional expertise as a Physical Therapist Registered Professional (PTRP), offering a comprehensive approach to health and wellness.
Outside of her medical practice, Dr. Cunanan is a great cook—a talent passed down from her mom. She humorously admits to having the worst sense of direction and can get lost in a parking lot, but ask her where a specific boutique is in the mall, and she'll lead you straight to it!
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