It can take weeks for a woman to regain her normal strength and stamina. Also, new mothers seldom get the kind of rest they need. In the hospital, sleep is interrupted by visitors, hospital routine, and the baby's feedings. At home, the feedings and care continue around the clock, along with the usual household tasks. This fatigue and lack of sleep can go on for months and be a major reason for depression.
Many psychological factors can contribute to postpartum depression.
Feelings of doubt about the pregnancy are very common. The pregnancy may be unwanted or unplanned. Sometimes a woman becomes pregnant in the hopes that the baby will bring back an estranged partner. When this does not happen, she may feel abandoned, angry, guilty, and inadequate. Or the baby may come early, forcing unexpected, stressful changes in home and work routines.