Post-natal Depression (Postpartum Depression)

Postpartum depression is moderate to severe depression in a woman after she has given birth. It may occur soon after delivery or up to a year later. Most of the time, it occurs within the first 3 months after delivery.

Causes

The exact causes of Postpartum depression are unknown. Changes in hormones level during and after pregnancy may affect a woman's mood. Many non-hormonal factors may also affect mood during this period

• Changes in your body from pregnancy and delivery

• Changes in work and social relationship

• Having less time and freedom for yourself

• Lack of sleep

• Worries about your ability to be a good mother

Risk Factors

You may have a higher chance of Postpartum depression if you

• Are under age 20

• Currently abuse, alcohol, take illegal substances, or smoke

• Did not plan the pregnancy, or had mixed feelings about the pregnancy

• Had depression, or an anxiety disorder before your pregnancy

• Had a stressful event during the pregnancy or delivery, or illness of  a loved one, a difficult or emergency delivery, premature delivery, or illness or birth in the baby

• Have a close family member who has had depression or anxiety

• Have a poor relationship with your significant other or are single

• Have money or housing problems

• Have little support from family, friends or your spouse or partner

Symptoms

Feelings of anxiety, irritation, fearfulness and restlessness are common in the week or two after pregnancy. This feelings are often called the postpartum or "baby blues". These symptoms almost always go away soon, without the need for treatment. Postpartum depression may occur when the baby blues do not fade away or when signs of depression start 1 or more months after childbirth.

The symptoms of postpartum depression are the same as in the symptoms of depression that occurs at other times in life. Along with a sad or depressed mode you may have some of  the following symptoms.

• Agitation or Irritability

• Changes in appetite

• Feelings worthless or unconnected

• Lack of pleasure or interest  in most or all activities

• Loss of concentration

• Loss of energy 

• Problems doing tasks at home or work

• Significant anxiety

• Thoughts of death or suicide

• Trouble sleeping

A mother with postpartum depression may also

• Be unable to care for herself or her baby

• Be afraid to be alone with her baby

• Have negatives feelings toward the baby or even think about harming the baby

• Worry intensely about the baby or have little interest in the baby signs and tests

There is no single test to diagnose Postpartum depression.

Treatment

A new mother who has any symptoms of postpartum depression should contact their doctor or nurse right away.

 

Here are some other helpful tips.

• Ask your partner, family and friends for help with the baby's need and in the home.

• Don't hide your feelings. Talk about your with partner, family and friend.

• Don't make any major life changes during pregnancy  or right after giving birth.

• Don't to do too much, or to be perfect

• Reset as much as you can. Sleep when the baby is sleeping

• Talk with other mothers or join a support group