Postpartum depression / What to watch out for

The birth of a baby can trigger a variety of powerful emotions, from happiness to fear and anxiety. But it can also lead to something unexpected, depression.

Most new mothers experience some melancholy after childbirth, which usually includes mood swings, anxiety, and sleep problems. It can start in the first 2-3 days after birth and last up to two weeks. But some young mothers experience a more severe and prolonged form of depression known as postpartum depression. In rarer cases, a more extreme mood disorder called postpartum psychosis may develop after birth.

Postpartum depression is not a problem with character or weakness, it is just a postnatal complication. If you have postpartum depression, immediate treatment can help manage your symptoms. Leaving untreated postpartum depression can disrupt the bond between mother and child and cause family problems.

Signs and symptoms of postpartum depression are varied and can range from mild to serious.

symptoms:

Humor fluctuations

Anxiety and panic attacks

Sadness

The hopeless ones

Irritation and anger

Crying

Lack of concentration and comfort

Appetite problems (loss of appetite or eating more than usual)

Sleep problems (sleeping more or less)

Difficulties in making a connection with the newborn

Leaving friends and family

Fatigue and lack of energy

Loss of interest in activity that they liked before birth

Fear of not being a good mom

Feeling worthless, ashamed, at fault and incapable

Inability to think clearly and make decisions

Thoughts on hurting yourself or your baby

Risk factors

Every young mother can experience postpartum depression, which can develop even after the birth of other children, not just the first. But it is more likely to happen if:

Have a history of depression, during pregnancy or other times

You have bipolar disorder

You had postpartum depression after a previous pregnancy

you have family members who have had depression or other mood disorders

You have experienced stressful events, such as complications during pregnancy, illness or loss of employment

Your child has health problems or disabilities

You have given birth to twins or more children

Have difficulty breastfeeding

You have a problem with your partner

You have financial problems

You have no people to rely on

The pregnancy was unplanned or unintended

If you have a history of depression, especially postpartum depression, tell your doctor if you are planning to become pregnant or once you find out you are pregnant.

During pregnancy, your doctor may monitor you closely for signs and symptoms of depression. Sometimes mild depression can be managed with support groups or other therapies. In other cases, anti-depressants may be recommended, even during pregnancy.

After the baby is born, your doctor may recommend a postpartum checkup to identify signs and symptoms of postpartum depression. The earlier it is identified, the earlier treatment can be initiated.

Source: Health Journal