What is Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum Depression is a type of depression that a mother
experiences immediately after childbirth. It is more serious and
lasts longer than 'baby blues'.
Postpartum depression occurs in approximately 10 percent of
childbearing women.
Postpartum depression often requires counseling and treatment.
Postpartum depression can occur after any birth, not just the
first.
Does every mother experience postpartum depression?
No.
Symptoms?
The most common symptoms are:
strong feelings of sadness,
anxiety or despair trouble coping with their daily tasks,
withdrawal from family and friends, trouble sleeping Loss of
sexual interest Severe mood swings
Treatment options?
Without treatment, postpartum depression may become worse or may
last longer.
Why does Postpartum Depression occur?
It is unclear exactly why postpartum depression occurs. There
are many factors that will determine whether a mother develops
postpartum depression.
The most common factors:
Decreases in levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone.
Fatigue after childbirth Feelings of doubt about the pregnancy
Lack of support from others. What is the difference between Baby
Blues and Postpartum Depression?
The biggest difference is that Baby Blues goes away within a
couple days of the childbirth.
Treatment Options?
Postpartum depression can be treated. The type of treatment
depends on the severity of the condition. One of the most common
treatments is attending a support group to talk with other women
who are going through the same thing.