What to know about postpartum depression
Postpartum depression occurs after giving birth, and it involves a persistent low mood. It is different from the “baby blues” that many new parents experience.
Having postpartum depression does not mean that a person does not love their baby. It is a mental health condition, and treatment can resolve it. Anyone with symptoms should see a doctor immediately.
Postpartum depression affects 1 in 9 new mothers, the Office on Women’s Health report.
Symptoms may arise within 1 month or 1 year of delivery. They include a persistently low mood that lasts for at least 2 weeks.
Also, according to an older study, 10% of new fathers experience similar depression, the highest rates of which occur 3–6 months after childbirth.
In this article, learn about effective treatments and self-care strategies for postpartum depression.
Symptoms
Postpartum depression can affect people differently, but below are some common signs and symptoms:
• a low or sad mood
• anxiety and irritability
• fatigue and lethargy
• feeling guilty, worthless, hopeless, or helpless
• pain, such as a headache or stomachache
• a lack of appetite
• difficulty thinking or focusing
• low motivation and a lack of interest in activities
• difficulty bonding with the baby
• feeling unable to care for the baby
• frequent or long bouts of crying
• feeling unable to make decisions
• withdrawing from friends and family
• having no interest in the baby or feeling as if they are another person’s responsibility
Some people experience postpartum psychosis, a severe mental health problem that needs immediate medical attention. Symptoms include hallucinations, delusions, mania, paranoia, and confusion.
Others experience baby blues. This is different from postpartum depression. It affects many new parents and usually disappears after 3–5 days.
A healthcare provider can help a person understand the cause of a low mood after childbirth, and they can provide effective treatments and self-care strategies, if necessary.
Postpartum depression can cause people to think about harming their child or themselves, including thoughts of suicide. If anyone has these thoughts, they or someone else should seek immediate help.
Causes
Doctors do not know exactly what causes postpartum depression, but it can affect anyone. Genetic factors may play a role, and environmental factors may also contribute.
The following may increase the risk of developing postpartum depression:
• past trauma
• hormonal fluctuations
• a previous diagnosis or family history of depression or bipolar disorder
• the physical and emotional stress of delivery and childcare
• added stress at work or at home
• difficulty sleeping
• feeling overwhelmed
• feeling unattractive
• feeling the need to be a perfect parent but feeling unable to achieve this
• not having any free time
• having breastfeeding difficulties
• having a substance use disorder
• having a baby with special needs
• having had an unwanted pregnancy
• being younger than 20
• having a lack of support from family and friends
• having had complications during delivery
• the need for the infant to spend time in the hospital
• experiencing preterm birth
• having a baby with a low birth weight
Diagnosis
If symptoms of depression last 2 weeks or longer within 1 year of giving birth, a person should receive medical attention.
This is also crucial for anyone who is having trouble caring for themselves or their baby.
The doctor will ask questions about symptoms and medical histories. They may also request blood tests to rule out other causes of depression.
Treatment
Treatment for postpartum depression is essential for the well-being of the parent and their newborn. The sooner a person receives it, the sooner they are likely to recover. Treatment is effective in most cases.
Once they have identified the issue, the doctor usually prescribes a combination of psychotherapy and medication.
Tips for helping to support recovery include:
• acknowledging the problem
• being open about any feelings
• getting help from friends and family
• joining a support group
Support groups can reduce the feelings of isolation and provide tools and helpful strategies.
Self-care tips
During and after pregnancy, a person can take some steps to help prevent or manage postpartum depression. Strategies include:
• having a healthful diet and getting regular exercise
• keeping all medical appointments and following up about health concerns
• eating small meals regularly to maintain blood sugar levels
• getting at least 7–8 hours of sleep each night
• planning ahead, during pregnancy, to reduce stress after delivery
• speaking openly to loved ones about feelings and concerns
• keeping in touch with friends and family, especially if parenting alone
• asking a healthcare professional about local self-help groups
• asking others for help with practical and emotional challenges
• resting, rather than doing housework, when the baby sleeps
• if possible, avoiding major changes, such as moving house, soon after delivery
• seeking help for housing, social, and other issues that arise
Source:www.medicalnewstoday.com |
