9 Myths New Moms Should Stop Believing ASAP

If you’re depressed, your baby will be too

When postpartum depression (PPD) sets in, it’s hard for a new mother not to think about the toll her emotional upheaval is having on her baby. One myth that new moms suffering from PPD often believe is that her baby is suffering too. Amber Cohn, MD, FACOG, told Reader’s Digest the truth, saying, “PPD cannot be passed on to baby, but baby can see some effects from it.” She continued, “Breastfeeding is often decreased in women who have PPD and bonding between mother and baby can also be decreased if the mother is suffering from PPD.” Dr. Cohn added that this symbiotic relationship between mother and child can work positively as well, adding, “When a mother receives treatment for PPD, it can have a positive influence on her and her baby.” Here are ten silent signs you could have postpartum depression.