Know What is Postpartum Depression and Why Should We Talk About It

Postpartum depression is a type of psychological illness faced by women after the delivery of their children. This type of depression refers to the physical, emotional, and behavioural changes a woman goes through and how it affects them post-delivery. Women often face this after their first child. However, many women may face it after their second child as well. The significant effect of postpartum depression is taking good care of the baby. During the postpartum depression, a woman becomes so physically and psychologically ill that they struggle a lot while taking care of their child. Therefore, people should not ignore postpartum depression. In fact, should be treated as soon as possible for the safety of both the mother and the child.

What are the symptoms of Postpartum Depression?

Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
Changes in appetite
Severe mood swings
Crying a lot
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
Difficulty concentrating
Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
Exhaustion/Depressed
Stressed out at all times
Getting easily irritated or angry
Difficulty making decisions

What are the causes of Postpartum Depression?

There is no specific cause of Postpartum Depression; doctors say that there can be several factors, which cause it. The factors can be associated with the physical or mental well-being of the mother.

Factors that can lead to postpartum depression include:

Hormonal changes
Any other underlying medical condition
Problems in the marriage
Age of pregnancy
Sleep deprivation
Depression or Anxiety
Financial instability
Poor diet
The child has any severe illness
Single mother
Recent divorce
No moral support
Any stressful event (losing a job, death of a loved one)
Family history of any mental or mood disorder

How can Postpartum Depression be treated?

Postpartum depression is a severe condition and should not get ignored if any symptoms persist for more than two weeks. Instead, people should treat it as soon as possible. Postpartum depression gets treated through therapy or medication, or a combination of both. Antidepressants are usually prescribed depending on the symptoms and their severity. Psychologists or any other mental health professional will host therapy sessions with the mother as per her needs. In many cases, the combination of medication and therapy is given together for faster effect.

Can Postpartum Depression be prevented?

If a woman has a history of any psychological disorder or any physical disease, one must inform the doctor as soon as she conceives. Psychological disorders such as depression or anxiety get often ignored after it is over, and many women do not find it necessary to inform their gynaecologists. It is essential to tell your gynaecologist of every detail of any medical or psychological history. That way, the gynaecologist can guide you during your pregnancy to take care of your emotional health. Postpartum Depression is a severe condition, which is harmful to both the mother and the child. Family members or spouses of the mother should pay attention to every aspect of a mother’s health and the child’s health during the pregnancy period and after childbirth. Most of the attention is given to the child after they are born, but the mother’s health is equally important and should be taken care of at all times.