Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression is a type of depression that occurs after the birth of a child. It affects up to 15% of the population. People suffering from postpartum depression have emotional highs and lows, frequent crying, fatigue, guilt, and anxiety, and may struggle to care for their baby. Medication and counseling can be used to treat postpartum depression.

What is postpartum depression?

Having a child is a life-changing event. Being a parent is thrilling but can also be exhausting and overwhelming. Feeling anxious or unsure is natural, especially if you’re a first-time parent. However, if you are experiencing extreme sadness or loneliness, severe mood swings, and frequent crying spells, you may suffer from postpartum depression.

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a type of depression that occurs following childbirth. Postpartum depression affects more than just the person who gives birth. It can also have an impact on surrogates and adoptive parents. After having a baby, people undergo hormonal, physical, emotional, financial, and social changes. These changes can result in postpartum depression symptoms.

If you are suffering from postpartum depression, know that you are not alone, that it is not your fault, and that help is available. Your healthcare provider can help you manage your symptoms and feel better.

What are the symptoms of postpartum depression?

Some people are ashamed of their symptoms or believe they are bad parents for feeling this way. Postpartum depression is a very common condition. You’re not the only one who feels this way, but that doesn’t make you bad.

If you have any of the following symptoms, you may be suffering from postpartum depression:

• Sadness, worthlessness, hopelessness, or guilt.
• Excessive worrying or apprehension.
• Loss of interest in hobbies or activities you used to enjoy.
• Changes in appetite or a lack of appetite.
• Lack of energy and motivation.
• Trouble sleeping or wanting to sleep all the time.
• Crying for no apparent reason or in excess.
• Difficulty thinking or concentrating.
• Suicidal thoughts or wishing you were dead.
• A lack of interest in your baby or apprehension around your baby.

Have you considered hurting your baby or feeling like you don’t want your baby?

If you suspect you have postpartum depression, consult your doctor. This could be your obstetrician, primary care physician, or mental health professional. Your child’s pediatrician can also assist you.

What causes postpartum depression?

More research is needed to determine the relationship between the rapid drop in hormone levels following delivery and depression. Estrogen and progesterone levels rise tenfold during pregnancy but fall precipitously after delivery. By three days postpartum, these hormone levels have returned to pre-pregnancy levels.

In addition to these chemical changes, having a baby causes social and psychological changes that increase your risk of postpartum depression. These changes include physical changes to your body, a lack of sleep, parenting concerns, or changes in your relationships.

How is postpartum depression diagnosed?

There is no specific test for detecting postpartum depression. During your postpartum visit, your healthcare provider will assess you. This visit may include discussing your medical history, how you’ve been feeling since giving birth, a physical exam, a pelvic exam, and lab tests. Many providers schedule visits two or three weeks after giving birth to screen for depression. This ensures that you receive the assistance you require as soon as possible.

They may perform a depression screening or ask questions to determine whether or not you have postpartum depression. They’ll ask how you’re feeling and how your child is doing. To ensure that your provider receives an accurate picture of your emotions and thoughts, be open and honest with them. They can help you determine whether your feelings are normal or symptoms of postpartum depression.

Because postpartum depression can cause symptoms similar to many thyroid conditions, your doctor may order a blood test.

Remember that your healthcare provider is there to support you and ensure your health, so be truthful with them. There is no condemnation, and you are not alone in your emotions.

Ways to cope with postpartum depression

It’s natural to feel overwhelmed. Parenting is full of ups and downs, and having a baby is especially difficult. You don’t have to suffer in silence if you have depression. Your healthcare provider can assist you in locating a treatment that works for you.

Here are some coping strategies for postpartum depression:

• Find someone to talk to — a therapist, a friend, a family member, or someone who will listen and assist you.
• Join a new parent support group.
• Make an effort to eat healthily and exercise regularly.
• Make rest a priority for yourself.
• Spend time with your friends or call them.
• Make time for self-care and activities you enjoy, such as reading or other hobbies.
• Get assistance with household chores or errands.

What happens if you don’t treat postpartum depression?

Untreated postpartum depression is hazardous to you, your baby, and those who care about you.

• You have a lack of energy.
• Moody.
• Believe you are incapable of caring for your child.
• Unable to concentrate or make decisions.
• Suffering from suicidal ideation.

Lastly

So if you’re struggling with postpartum depression, know that we at Kazmo Brain Center can offer you the help and support you need.