What causes postpartum depression?

• A. Increased stress, family/personal history, hormonal changes
• B. Decreased stress, favorable history
• C. Sleep only
• D. Diet alone

Answer: (A)

Postpartum depression arises from a mix of biological changes and psychosocial factors after childbirth. The key contributors are hormonal shifts that occur when estrogen and other hormones drop after delivery, increased stress and adjustment challenges of caring for a newborn, and a personal or family history of mood disorders. Hormonal changes can affect neurotransmitter systems involved in mood regulation, while sleep disruption and the demands of new parenting amplify vulnerability. Because of this combination, the statement that includes hormonal changes plus increased stress and a personal/family history best explains why postpartum depression develops. The other options are too narrow—stress is not the only factor, and focusing on sleep alone or diet alone doesn’t capture the multifactorial nature of this condition.