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Postpartum Depression

Symptoms and treatments of postpartum depression.

By Sapphire RavenclawPublished 7 years ago 3 min read
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Postpartum depression, otherwise known as postnatal depression, happens after the birth of a child. It can affect both women and men.

Postpartum depression is very common amongst new mothers. It can manifest fairly quickly after a birth although there may be no visible symptoms, particularly as those suffering from any type of depression do not necessarily "look" depressed and they may put on a brave face, often thinking they are in the wrong for feeling the way they do.

How to spot ppd

One way to spot postpartum depression in new mothers is by observing the way they behave with their new child. Often, sufferers will have difficulty in bonding with their infant and may appear distant from both the infant as well as a partner and other close friends and family.

No one knows for certain how many women are affected by postnatal illness, although the estimated figure is as many as one in five.

"Baby blues"

Up to 80 percent of new mothers are affected by the "baby blues" commonly known as the "three-day blues" because of its manifestation on or around the time the baby is three days old. This can last up to around three weeks and, after this, should the new mother still be feeling "blue", there may be an indication that she is suffering from postpartum depression

What causes postpartum depression?

There is very little known about postpartum depression except that anyone, from any background, can suffer from it.

It is possible for a woman to have postpartum depression after one child but be perfectly fine after another. There is no absolute indication as to whether anyone is likely to develop postpartum depression although there are some potentially influential factors, for example, it is considered more likely to occur in women with a personal or family history of depression, younger mothers (under 25), women who have little support during and after pregnancy and those who already have other worries such as financial or relationship issues. Sometimes it can simply be a case of being overwhelmed by the new responsibility.

Reports show that ppd does not always manifest soon after birth and that it can last for several years in some sufferers. PPD can also lead to feelings of isolation.

PPD in men

PPD can also occur in men (paternal post partum depression). According to Postpartum Men, it is a common misconception—even by some medical professionals—that men do not suffer from ppd.

Symptoms are usually similar to those in mothers although they are triggered differently. In a woman, there are hormonal changes throughout pregnancy and birth which can contribute to the subsequent depression but, for fathers, it is more of a social change. A shock, suddenly not knowing where or how they fit in with this new life.

Treatments

The three main treatments (for men or women) are:

1. Counseling: Talking about a problem with someone who will listen can often be a huge relief and can go a considerable way to overcoming the illness altogether. Counsellors can also give practical advice and help set achievable goals.

2. Antidepressants: Have been proven to work but still carry risks, especially to breastfed babies. It is important to discuss and understand the risks and benefits of antidepressants when considering this option.

3. Hormone Therapy: There are risks involved such as decreased milk production and the potential to develop blood clots. Again, risks and benefits should be thoroughly discussed and considered before pursuing this option.

For men, simply explaining how he can fit in, including him in aspects of the pregnancy and birth (provided this is not to the detriment of the mother or child) can often be a way to combat feelings that he is not needed—a feeling common to some new fathers who feel pushed out.

Having a supportive partner, friends and family are, of course, good things. These, however, do not guarantee that a person will not suffer from depression. Nor should such a possibility be dismissed.

Both antidepressants and hormone therapy can have side effects, usually mild but can be serious so it is essential to discuss these with a medical professional.

While it can be difficult to differentiate between feeling a bit sad, tired, or overwhelmed and actually having depression, it is always advisable to seek help as soon as possible.

depression
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About the Creator

Sapphire Ravenclaw

I am, among other things, a freelance writer and mother. I enjoy writing poetry and articles. Currently, much of my spare time is spent working on a book about Paganism (one of many subjects which interests me).

More of me:

WordPress

My Poetry

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