But that joy is tempered for the nearly 60 percent of new mothers who also suffer from postpartum depression (PPD). The symptoms include anxiety, depression, irritability, confusion, and crying ...

The innovative advance could shift treatment from response to prevention, and redefine how we think about this common maternal condition.

Postpartum depression can last months or years, but most people recover within six months. First-time mothers, young mothers, and mothers of twins have a higher risk of postpartum depression.

Mothers who suffer from postpartum depression may be less responsive to their children's cognitive and emotional needs, which can affect healthy development and capacity for self-regulation. Women ...