Postpartum Depression

Postpartum Depression or PPD can occur right after giving birth or a few months or even a year later. More often than not, postpartum depression happens within the first three months after the delivery. The question is, what causes it? Women are susceptible to mood changes and this becomes worse when they are pregnant. Mood changes are also experienced after giving birth. Such a thing happens because of hormonal changes possibly due to worrying about one’s ability of being a good mother, having less time for oneself, physical changes due to pregnancy and giving birth and changes in one’s work and social relationships. All these things pose as a threat to the mother’s well-being.

Feelings of anxiety are common according to doctors and mothers usually feel this a week or so after the delivery. Aside from anxiety, moms who just gave birth are usually easily irritated and are restless. Sometimes, bouts of depression occur too. It is interesting to note that according to statistics, mothers who are under the age of 20 and those who did not plan on getting pregnant in the first place. Stressful events can also cause postpartum depression. This can include premature delivery, birth defects, death of a loved one among other things.

Postpartum depression is a scary disorder because there are instances where the mother even thinks about harming the baby. A few years ago, celebrated model and actress Brooke Shields had to fight the mother lode of all emotional roller coasters – postpartum depression. She said in one TV show that she wanted to put an end to all of it by jumping off the window. From an outsider’s point of view, Shields has it all –a happy family, wealth, fame but in her mind at the time, she felt helpless. PDD is really something that any mother wouldn’t want to experience not only because it takes its toll on one’s emotional health but because it puts one’s life and one’s child’s life in danger.

It is unfortunate that there is not one single test that will tell you whether you have postpartum depression or not. If you think you do however, it is best to consult with your doctor and have you complete a survey to see signs of depression.

How do you treat it?

A mother experiencing PDD symptoms should ask their family members especially their husbands to help in taking care of the baby. It is also a good idea not to hide your feelings because having a baby doesn’t mean you should be happy all the time –there are just those times when you feel really sad. Emotions like sadness or shame or irritability shouldn’t be bottled up inside.

It is also important to make time for yourself. Going out with friends or taking some time off just to read or watch tv on your own is a good idea to ensure your emotional and mental health. Taking care of a baby is not easy especially if you are experiencing PDD. Having a support group is also a fine idea but they should never be used as a replacement for proper therapy or medication.

There are of course other treatments available and this includes medication and therapy or a combination of the two. New moms can be given antidepressants after delivery if they are experiencing PDD symptoms. Such drugs include paroxetine, nortriptyline, and setraline. These drugs are safe for use for breastfeeding mothers.

If your baby blues does not go away, seeking the help of your healthcare provider is necessary especially in instances where you could no longer take care of your child.