Postpartum Depression: Treating It Successfully

Postpartum depression is a common disorder linked to childbirth. It afflicts at least one in 10 women and is not an indicator of mothering ability. Childbirth is a major event, one that presents significant physical and psychological stresses. It can be a factor in the development of this illness.

• Baby blues can arise after childbirth and normally go away within a short period. These temporary symptoms subside and treatment is not needed.
• Postpartum depression can occur anytime within a year after giving birth and is recognized as a serious condition associated with childbirth. This disorder needs to be treated.
• The third and most troubling manifestation is postpartum psychosis or what is called puerperal psychosis. A mother suffering from this may be at risk of inflicting harm on herself or her infant. Fortunately, this condition is rare.

Symptoms of Postpartum Depression

Symptoms of postpartum depression manifest in lack of motivation and energy, irritability, and feelings of agitation and anxiousness.

Each woman’s experience will be different but symptoms can be distressing and often leave the mother feeling ashamed and isolated, grappling with feelings of guilt because she thinks this should have been the happiest time of her life, and instead, she feels intense sadness.

A new mother may feel hopeless and overwhelmed, withdrawing from friends and family. Life may have lost its sparkle and interest in normal activities is diminished. Focus, memory problems, and decision-making may be compromised. Physical problems include: headaches, chest pains, heart palpitations (skipping or rapid beats), and hyperventilation. Appetite and sleep may be disturbed, as well.

Postpartum Depression: Mother and Baby Affected

Postpartum depression can impact on a mother’s ability to parent her infant. A mother afflicted with a host of distressing symptoms may be unable to meet her child’s emotional needs. This can be self-perpetuating because the mother then feels ashamed or worthless, questioning her ability to be a good parent. Her loss of confidence can deepen the depression. It goes one step further because her baby can be affected, showing emotional and behavioral problems.

Pregnancy and the hormonal changes it brings can lead to postpartum depression. Certain chemical changes take place in your body during and after pregnancy and may contribute to it. Hormonal changes can lead to chemical imbalances in the brain. Treatment is focused on relieving symptoms.

Treatment Options for Postpartum Depression

• Talk and group therapies can help to change thinking patterns
• Antidepressant medication can be administered to relieve symptoms of depression in the postpartum period.
• Natural remedies work to correct imbalances that impair functioning and emotional well-being, helping to rebalance hormones.

Herbal extracts may relieve irritability, headaches, sweating, heart palpitations, sleep disturbances, anxiety and depression. Valerian and Chamomile are favorites. If you are considering a natural remedy, always obtain advice from a practitioner trained in the use of natural remedies for postpartum depression.

If you are pregnant and worried that this condition may occur in the postpartum period or if you are currently suffering from postpartum depression, remember that treatment is available. You are not responsible and this disorder does not have to interfere with everyday living. Babies deserve to have emotionally healthy mothers and mothers are entitled to the joy and happiness that children bring. You truly can enjoy the riches that parenthood offers.