Postpartum Depression in Madrid: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

"You should be the happiest person in the world," they tell you. But you feel empty, an inexplicable urge to cry, fear, and guilt.. It's not what you expected. And you don't know if you're a bad mother for feeling this way. If you feel this way, it could be postpartum depression, a real and treatable medical condition that affects between 21% and 30% of women in Spain during the postpartum period, according to data from the General Council of Psychology. It’s not your fault. It’s not a lack of love for your baby. It’s a mood disorder that requires professional help. At MadridPsicoterapia, with an office in Chamberí and online services, we have psychologists specializing in perinatal psychology who will support you through this process.

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Depression postpartum

What is postpartum depression, and how does it differ from the baby blues?

The postpartum depression It is a depressive disorder that generally appears in the first few weeks or months after childbirth, although it can manifest up to a year after the birth.

It is essential to distinguish between the postpartum depression the baby blues: The baby blues is a normal emotional response that occurs in the first 3–5 days after childbirth, caused by a sudden drop in hormone levels, and usually resolves on its own within two weeks. The postpartum depression, on the other hand, lasts longer than two weeks, is more intense, and significantly affects her ability to care for her baby and herself.

The symptoms of depression Postpartum symptoms include: deep and persistent sadness, frequent crying for no apparent reason, anxiety or panic attacks, difficulty bonding with the baby, feelings of guilt or of being a bad mother, lack of energy and extreme fatigue, changes in appetite and sleep (beyond what is typical when caring for a newborn), irritability or anger, and, in the most severe cases, thoughts of harming herself or the baby.

In Spain, the prevalence of postpartum depressive symptoms ranges from 21.7% to 30.3%, while the major depression The postpartum rate is estimated to be between 7.7% and 14.8%.

At MadridPsicoterapia, located at 141 Santa Engracia Street in Madrid (Chamberí) and online, we offer specialized assessment and treatment provided by psychologists who are experts in motherhood and the postpartum period.

Test of depression postpartum

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Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS)

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Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Postpartum Depression

We know that many questions may arise before starting therapy. Here, we answer the most common questions we receive from people who contact our clinic.

When does postpartum depression occur, and how long does it last?

Postpartum depression can occur at any time during the first year after childbirth, although it is most common in the first 4–6 weeks. Without treatment, it can last for months or even more than a year. With appropriate psychological treatment (cognitive-behavioral therapy or interpersonal therapy), most women experience significant improvement within a few weeks. In moderate or severe cases, combined treatment with medication may be recommended, always taking into account the impact on breastfeeding. Early detection is key to a faster recovery.

Can a father or partner develop postpartum depression?

Yes. Postpartum depression is not exclusive to mothers. Fathers and partners can also develop depressive symptoms during the postpartum period: it is estimated to affect 8–10% of fathers. The symptoms may be similar (sadness, fatigue, irritability, social withdrawal), but in men they tend to manifest more as irritability, increased focus on work, or escapist behaviors. Although this condition is not specifically coded under F53 (which refers to the mother’s postpartum period), it is diagnosed as a depressive episode (F32) and is treated in the same way.

Is breastfeeding compatible with treatment for postpartum depression?

Psychological treatment (psychotherapy) is always compatible with breastfeeding. As for medication, some antidepressants are considered compatible with breastfeeding, but the decision must be made by a psychiatrist or physician after individually assessing the risks and benefits. At MadridPsicoterapia, we work in coordination with each patient’s medical team to ensure that treatment is safe and effective. Don’t hesitate to seek help out of fear that treatment might affect breastfeeding—there are therapeutic options for every situation.

Does postpartum depression affect a baby's development?

If left untreated, postpartum depression can affect the mother-baby bond and, in the long term, the child’s emotional, cognitive, and social development. Studies show that babies born to mothers with untreated depression may be at greater risk for attachment disorders, sleep problems, and increased emotional reactivity. However, with proper treatment, these effects are reversible. Treating the mother also protects the baby. Seeking help early is an act of love toward your child.

What should I do if I think I have postpartum depression?

The first step is to recognize that what you’re feeling isn’t a weakness or a failure as a mother—it’s a medical condition that needs attention. Talk to your primary care physician, gynecologist, or midwife, who can conduct an initial assessment. If you don’t know where to start, you can call MadridPsicoterapia directly at 919 932 920 (toll-free). Our psychologists specializing in postpartum care, with an office in Chamberí (Calle Santa Engracia 141, Madrid), will conduct a comprehensive evaluation and design a treatment plan tailored to your situation. You’re not alone.

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