Postpartum Depression (Not A Taboo)

One fine evening Sarah and Linda were having a good time together. Sarah became a mother recently and was talking about how her life changed after having a baby. Linda was observing her condition and suggested seeing a doctor. Are you also wondering if you could be affected by postpartum depression? First, you need to know what actually postpartum is. 

Postpartum depression

A mental disorder called postpartum depression, also known as the "baby blues," typically affects women within a month of giving birth but can also strike just before or immediately after. It is more probable to happen. If you feel stressed, have any other disorder or depression, or were traumatized previously. See a doctor as soon as possible.

The baby blues are an emotional condition marked by worry, dissatisfaction, exhaustion, and self-doubt that affects over 40% of new mothers, according to the research. Baby blues often go away in just a few days or a week, however, if they persist for longer than two weeks, it may be postpartum depression. But many mothers who suffer from PPD, the diagnosis is shrouded in stigma, shame, and guilt.

Women are compelled to suffer in silence and humiliation despite the fact that 15% of women, as per Postpartum Support International, experience postnatal depression. Change in lifestyle after delivery becomes awful sometimes: lack of sleep, eating disorders, and lack of communication with spouse or other peers could be signs of postpartum depression.

Symptoms

There are many possible causes some of them are: 

• Changes in hormones

After giving birth, lots of changes happen to your body, and hormonal changes are one of them. The level of estrogen and progesterone hormones plays a major role. You can't control your emotions, sometimes you would be crying and sad about little things, and sometimes you will feel overwhelmed with joy, and you may have anxiety attacks or mood swings too.

• Changes in relationships, having less “ME” time

When people around you are not proactively giving a hand and letting you take care of the baby alone, it creates anger, tiredness, and detachment towards them. Many people should understand that mothers with a new baby need extra help every day.

• Self-doubt about being a good mother

A new mother faces big challenges. She also had to go through lots of thoughts she has to deal with: and start questioning herself, am I able to raise a good human? Is it suitable for my baby? Being possessive towards the baby is fine, it will overcome with time.

Diagnosis

A good examination can diagnose postpartum depression; the doctor will assess your mental and physical health to determine the severity of the depression. It is necessary to identify that you are facing baby blues or PPD. Baby blues often begin around the third day after delivery and end by the tenth. Typically, they don't require any medical attention.

Treatment

Remember, it is a condition, not a disease, it will be treated by making some changes in daily life. Take time for yourself, go for a walk, and exercise daily. In the case of severe postpartum depression, doctors may advise below on ways to deal with it.

Medications

In addition to antidepressants to treat your depression, the doctor can prescribe some drugs to regulate your hormone levels. The doctor suggested either tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) or serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) as antidepressants (SSRIs).

Counseling

Postpartum depression is often cured with proper counseling and therapy from a psychiatrist. Spend some time talking to someone to get the support you need. Take time away from your baby for a chance to rest, and encourage positive behavioral changes that will improve symptoms.

Natural Treatment 

Many people opted for natural remedies to postpartum depression. It may include some exercises, yoga, or meditation suggested by a professional. There are some vitamins you can take like omega 3, and B2 along with medications.

Having a PPD is not a bad thing that you are ashamed of. Sometimes you are not aware that you're facing this situation. We have to realize that this has become very common these days, and talking about it is not a taboo. When a woman faces these, try to help them rather than mock them. It will get better and feels better.