In simple words: This code is for mild mood changes, like feeling sad, down, or irritable, that some women get after having a baby. These feelings are usually temporary and don't need special treatment, but it is important to see a doctor if the feelings last a long time or are severe.

O90.6, Postpartum mood disturbance, is an ICD-10-CM code used to classify transient mood changes experienced by women after childbirth.These disturbances range from mild postpartum blues (characterized by tearfulness, irritability, and mood swings lasting a few days) to more pronounced dysphoria or sadness.It excludes conditions such as postpartum depression (F53.0), which is a more severe and persistent mood disorder requiring distinct clinical management. The code applies specifically to maternal records and should not be used for newborn records.Additional codes may be necessary to specify the gestational week.It is important to distinguish O90.6 from other postpartum mental health conditions through clinical assessment to ensure appropriate coding.

Example 1: A 30-year-old woman, one week postpartum, presents with tearfulness, anxiety, and sleep disturbances.She reports feeling overwhelmed and irritable but denies suicidal ideation.Her symptoms meet the criteria for postpartum blues as per DSM-5., A 25-year-old woman, two weeks postpartum, complains of persistent low mood, loss of interest in activities, and changes in appetite.The patient reports difficulty coping with daily tasks, and her symptoms are consistent with postpartum dysphoria., A 35-year-old woman, five days postpartum, exhibits transient emotional lability and emotional reactivity. She is experiencing mild anxiety and mood swings, but these symptoms are resolving spontaneously.This represents a mild case of postpartum sadness.

Documentation should include a detailed history of the patient's symptoms, including onset, duration, severity, and impact on daily functioning.Relevant psychosocial factors, such as marital status, social support, and previous history of mental health disorders, should be documented.Results of any psychological assessments or diagnostic testing should also be included.In cases of significant symptoms, evidence of referral to a mental health professional is essential.

** While O90.6 encompasses a range of postpartum mood disturbances, it's crucial to differentiate it from more severe disorders like postpartum depression and psychosis. Clinical judgment and thorough documentation are paramount for appropriate coding.