Postnatal depression affects about 10 percent of women in the early weeks postpartum, with episodes typically lasting two to six months. There has been much research trying to prove a biological basis to postpartum depression. Inadequate hormones, thyroid dysfunction and immune changes brought on by stress are examples of the most popular theories. Furthermore, the occurrence of stressful life events in general, such as unemployment, marital conflict and the absence of personal support have all consistently been found to raise the risk. Oftentimes, women with postpartum depression have described resentment that their lives have changed so drastically compared with their partners.
Women place high expectations on themselves.
The belief that they should manage all physical chores, and emotional demands of a family, is a dominant one in our society. Seldom are these fantasies fulfilled. Often, women are competent in other roles outside of the family. In the postpartum period, when roles and family constellations change, it is a time of disequilibrium. Having a plan in place to help both partners adjust to the new baby can help offset some, but not all, of the risk.