Have you been feeling all over the place since you have given birth? Do you feel constantly sad or lonely and unable to bond with your baby or spend the needed time with your baby? It might be postpartum depression. Postpartum depression is a serious condition and is one of the most least discussed topics.
What is postpartum depression?
Postnatal depression or postpartum depression can never be compared to baby blues. Most people assume it to occur right after delivery, but it can occur somewhere between two to eight weeks postpartum and even up to a year after childbirth. Postpartum depression includes more than just feeling down after giving delivery.
Generally mothers dealing with postpartum depression often cry a lot, fail to bond with their babies, and even start doubting themselves whether they can do the best for their babies.All new mothers have worries to a certain extent and it is quite common for them to have such worries.
What are the common symptoms to identify postpartum depression?
The symptoms of postpartum depression are quite similar to that of depression. They include:
- Feeling constantly low or sad
- Loss of energy
- Severe fatigue
- Improper sleep
- Unable to concentrate
- Appetite changes
- Unable to enjoy things you enjoyed previously
Your thoughts can be very negative, and you may consider hurting yourself. You may feel detached from yourself and your partner. Remember that this phase is temporary as soon as you seek best psychiatrist doctor in Coimbatore.
What is the difference between postpartum depression and baby blues?
The majority of mothers who experience postpartum depression mistake it for baby blues, and others may do the same. However, baby blues are in no way comparable to postpartum depression.Baby blues last for a short period of time, and instead of being sad, you may become irritated. Baby blues usually resolve on their own within two weeks without any treatment.
What are the symptoms of baby blues?
Baby blues symptoms only lasts for a few days or a week and few common symptoms can include:
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Crying
- Anxiety
- Loss of appetite
- Trouble in sleeping
What are the possible risk factors for developing postpartum depression?
- Having a history of depression
- Trouble in marriage
- Younger parent usually under the age of 20
- Limited support
- Unsure about pregnancy
What are the possible causes of postpartum depression?
Postpartum depression after giving birth does not have a direct cause and is often caused due to several factors. They include:
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Changes in hormone levels:
Pregnancy is a tough time, and a woman’s body goes through a lot of changes. Similarly when a woman gives birth hormonal health takes a toll on. Within a few hours of delivery, progesterone and estrogen levels in the body drastically drop. Just like the way you feel mood swings before your menstrual cycle.
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History of depression:
Mothers who were depressed prior to or throughout their pregnancy are more likely to develop postpartum depression.
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Emotional factors:
Usually when the pregnancy is not planned or if the couple is not ready to have a baby then the mental health can take a toll on the body. Even if a pregnancy is planned it can take a lot to adjust to the fact of carrying a baby.
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Fatigue:
It is common to feel exhausted or tired after giving birth. And it can be one of the most common reasons for mothers to develop postpartum depression.
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Lack of support:
Mothers require a lot of support from family members as it can lead to tiredness and exhaustion.
How common is postpartum depression?
Postpartum depression is quite common and it is said that about 1 in 8 women tend to experience postpartum depression after childbirth.
What are the tips to overcome postpartum depression?
Although ladies suffering from postpartum depression may require medical attention, there are a few techniques that can help you overcome the disease more easily.
Make a schedule to exercise:
Finding time for things like these can be difficult. But exercising releases endorphins which helps keep your mind happy. Try asking for help, or even better take your newborn on a stroller to simply just walk around as it also helps you with bonding with the baby.
Eat healthy food:
Women suffering from postpartum depression may not feel like eating, causing them to lose weight, and they may also be irritable as a result of poor nutrition. Consuming a healthy diet alone will not resolve postpartum depression. But eating healthy keeps the vital vitamins and minerals level in check and this eventually helps in keeping your mood happy and healthy.
Create me time:
I know this can be overwhelming and it isn’t easy to take for yourself when you have a newborn to look after. But remember you can ask help from your family or friends who can take care of your baby for an hour while you get time to relax. You do things that help your mind relax. It can be anything like reading a book, gardening, or simply anything that is your hobby.
Take time to relax:
“Sleep while the baby sleeps” is a famous adage. Well it’s true s your body is already going through so much and it is important to take as much rest as possible to function properly.
Keep a look on breastfeeding:
Sometimes, breastfeeding can contribute to postpartum depression. In case of breast milk rejection this may be the reason for postpartum depression.
Do not isolate yourself:
Your thoughts need to be expressed, bottling up thoughts or emotions can only lead to bursting out some day.
When should you visit a doctor for postpartum depression?
Many people find it difficult to differentiate between baby blues and postpartum depression. You need to have a close look on your symptoms and how you feel is important before seeking help. Try to look for the symptoms and how long it is lasting. Especially if you are having serious harmful thoughts it is important to seek immediate help.
What are the ways to treat postpartum depression?
Postpartum depression can be treated in several ways and medical experts have multiple approaches to treat postpartum depression. Here is what can help:
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Therapy:
Postpartum depression is a mental issue that requires therapy. This can be done by both counseling or sessions depending on your diagnosis analysis.
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Self-care:
How much ever you seek therapy sessions, it is important to look after yourself. Try some postpartum depression self care tips and try to do things that make you happy as it helps you in a quicker recovery.
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Medications:
While seeking medical help for postpartum mental health experts may recommend a few medicines to help you relax and calm your mind.
Are there any ways to prevent postnatal depression?
There is no right or straight way to prevent postnatal depression. But being aware of the risk factors can help you stay educated and know the right time to seek mental health treatment.
How does postpartum depression affect the baby?
If you do not receive correct therapy for postpartum depression, your baby may suffer severe consequences. Here is how it can affect your newborn:
- Having bonding issues with mother
- Having trouble in feeding and sleep
- May develop learning or behavioral problems
- May have improper social skills when they reach a certain age
What happens if you don’t get postpartum depression treated?
Not seeking postpartum depression treatment is considered harmful to both you and your baby. As it can lead to:
- Insufficient energy
- Unable to adequately care for your newborn
- Trouble focussing on your baby
- Having a severe negative thoughts
Important Takeaway:
One in eight experience postpartum depression, which is a common mental disorder after childbirth. Remember not to blame yourself as it is not your fault, and you cannot prevent it. Having postpartum depression does not mean you are a horrible person or a bad mother. It is important to understand that you can always seek medical help from the best psychiatrist doctor in Coimbatore to help your mind recover.
