Which of the following is NOT a sign of postpartum depression?

• A. Excessive guilt
• B. Anxiety
• C. Fluctuating mood
• D. Fatigue

Answer: (C)

Fluctuating mood is not specifically classified as a sign of postpartum depression. While emotional variability can occur after childbirth due to hormonal changes and the adjustment to motherhood, postpartum depression is more commonly characterized by persistent feelings of excessive guilt, profound anxiety, and significant fatigue.

Excessive guilt may manifest as a feeling of inadequacy or doubt about one's ability to care for the newborn, which is a core feature in postpartum depression. Anxiety is another major symptom, where individuals may experience persistent worry and tension, often fearing that something might happen to their child. Fatigue is also a prominent symptom, often resulting from the demands of caring for a newborn and the sleep disruptions that come with it. These elements together mark the emotional and psychological challenges that define postpartum depression, making fluctuating mood less central to its diagnosis.