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October 10, 2024

What Is Postpartum Depression? Know Causes, Symptoms, Support And Treatment

Since postpartum depression is a treatable condition, the situation becomes much less daunting if early intervention can be achieved.

Postpartum depression, or PPD, is a major mood disorder, which can appear in women after childbirth. Although “baby blues,” symptoms of melancholy, apprehension, and fatigue occur rather commonly in the early weeks following delivery, postpartum depression is far more serious and lasts much longer. This will affect not only the mental and physical well-being of a woman but also her ability to take care of her newborn as well as herself. Recovery without signs would be achievable only if a person was informed about the signs, sought help when having the signs, and received appropriate treatment.

Postpartum depression, or PPD, is a major mood disorder, which can appear in women after childbirth. Although “baby blues,” symptoms of melancholy, apprehension, and fatigue occur rather commonly in the early weeks following delivery, postpartum depression is far more serious and lasts much longer. This will affect not only the mental and physical well-being of a woman but also her ability to take care of her newborn as well as herself. Recovery without signs would be achievable only if a person was informed about the signs, sought help when having the signs, and received appropriate treatment.

Symptoms Of Postpartum Depression

According to Dr Sindhu Bhargavi MBBS, DNB OG, MRCOG Obstetrics & Gynecology, Apollo Cradle and Children’s Hospital, Chennai, PPD usually begins in the first weeks after a child is born, but may occur at any time during the first year.

1. Persistent Sadness

The women who have PPD always feel hopelessness/ emptiness and get overwhelmed even while enjoying moments. It becomes impossible to enjoy time with a baby or to perform daily activities.

2. Emotional Instability

Crying spells are very common and uncontrollable, which most of the time arise without any apparent cause.

Also read: 5 Important Breastfeeding Facts You Should Know, Let’s Know The Benefits And Challenges

3. Extreme Fatigue

While a new mother is usually quite vulnerable to sleep deprivation alongside her, in extreme PPD cases, fatigue goes beyond the ordinary and expected bouts of tiredness even after getting adequate rest.

4. Loss of Appetite, Disruption of Sleep Cycle, and Harmful Thoughts

PPD can disrupt normal sleep cycles and even appetite to cause overeating or aversion to eating and may even cause sleeping disorders. In extreme situations, there may be suicidal thoughts so as to harm the self and also the baby and at times even against the infant.

5. Family And Friend Support

Family and friends too need care as they are the significant components in controlling PPD. Most first-time mothers would find it relatively simple to cope with the condition if they received encouragement, understanding, or practical help, such as doing household chores or childcare for the newborn or listening. Symptoms must be observed closely by the partners and emotional support must be given to assure them that it is advisable to receive professional treatment if necessary.

Treatment

Psychotherapy: CBT or IPT will enable them to find ways to handle their mood

Medication: Doctors will offer antidepressants, which may offer treatment progress for the patient. They are known to be safe with breastfeeding

Self-Care: Intensive exercise, healthy diets, and sleep are crucial elements of recovery. Taking time for themselves and finding a functioning support system is very effective in helping improve their mental health.

Understanding symptoms, seeking assistance, and exploring treatment may be the door-opening ticket that allows moms to start recovering wellness and meaningfully connecting with their newborns.

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