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 for postpartum depression will hit the market in the U.S. 

 experiences depression after her baby's birth — making it one of the most common complications of pregnancy. 

The drug offers almost immediate relief. Some women reported a mood change in as little as 48 hours — a huge improvement over the current treatment of conventional antidepressants, which can take a month or more to kick in.

But the new drug brings its own set of hurdles. It has to be administered through an IV for 60 continuous hours, and it's estimated to cost $34,000 for one treatment. Will that keep it out of reach for those who need it most?

May is Mental Health Month, so on Wednesday, MPR News guest host Tiffany Hanssen talked about this new medication with two Twin Cities doctors who specialize in women's mental health. 

We also took an expansive look at perinatal mood and anxiety conditions that can crop up during pregnancy or even well after the baby is born. 

To listen to the full conversation you can use the audio player above.

, a psychiatrist with The Mother Baby Center at Allina Health

, director of the Hennepin Healthcare Mother-Baby Program

, our MPR initiative to foster new conversations about mental health.

Subscribe to the MPR News with Kerri Miller podcast

Concerned you might be experiencing a perinatal mood disorder? Help is available.

• The Mother-Baby HopeLine at Hennepin Healthcare Mother-Baby Program: (612) 873-HOPE (4673).

The Mother-Baby Center has several resources

Pregnancy and Postpartum Support Minnesota

National Alliance on Mental Illness Minnesota Perinatal Resources

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The first-ever drug for postpartum depression hits the market next month. The medication works fast. But at $34,000 per treatment, will it reach those who need it most?

New treatment for postpartum depression comes with a steep cost

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