Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression is a very serious illness. Although I have never had ppd, I have known women who have. There are many different degrees to this illness.

I myself have gone through the "baby blues." Which lasts a few days or weeks after the baby is born. The baby blues are not as severe as the other types of depression after having a baby. Some of the side effects are crying and sometimes for no reason, appetite and sleep patterns are not the same as usual and also feeling sad and overwhelmed.
I have also known a few friends with Postpartum depression. One friend told me that she had never admitted this to anyone before, but that is she saw a pair of scissors or a knife she could actually see herself harming the baby. After she had told me this, I asked her is it was something that she wanted to do or if it was completely involuntary. She told me that it was a thought that she couldn't control and that she was sure she wouldn't have done it because the thoughts scared her so bad. She also had thoughts of hurting herself and she didn't want to be around the baby at all.
Another more severe part of postpartum depression is called Postpartum Psychosis, which is more rare. These women may actually try hurting themselves or the baby. Their mood swings are a lot more rapid and they may see things that are not there.
If you suspect that you or someone else may have this, talking with your doctor is the best thing for you and your entire family. My friend admitted to me her feelings years later and we are very lucky nothing came of it. She was already on antidepressants for long term depression and that probably saved their lives.
People do want to help. Don't be afraid to ask someone, they will be happy that you did. Feeling ashamed and talking about your depression is a lot better then the feelings you would have if you hadn't and something terrible were to happen.