It's estimated that up to 70% of all new mothers experience the "baby blues." These "blues" typically peak four to five days after delivery and fade
away within a week or two. However, sometimes these "blues" don't go away.
Instead the new mother becomes increasingly distraught. She may become
weepy, lethargic, agitated, or even have thoughts of suicide. She may start to worry excessively about her new baby or have unwanted thoughts of
harming the child. These are all symptoms of Postpartum Depression (PPD).
Postpartum depression is nothing to be ashamed of. It's been around for longer than you might think.
Historically, the connection between childbirth and psychiatric illness has been well-recognized. In 460 BC, Hippocrates described postpartum
"fever," which produced "agitation, delirium and attacks of mania." The 11th century writings of the gynecologist Trotula of Salerno note that
"if the womb is too moist, the brain is filled with water, and the moisture running over to the eyes, compels them to involuntarily shed tears."
Postpartum depression is not much different than major depression, except that it strikes shortly after childbirth.. Although PPD is more common than many typical pregnancy ailments, such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and preterm delivery,
this condition is typically under-diagnosed. Despite its common occurrence and devastating consequences, PPD receives little attention
in modern clinical literature, training, and practice.
Symptoms of Postpartum Depression
Signs that you may be suffering from PPD include:
- Depressed (sad) mood
- Lack of pleasure or interest in activities
- Sleep disturbance (sleeping too much or too little)
- Weight loss
- Loss of energy
- Agitation or psychomotor retardation (moving very slowly)
- Feelings of worthlessness or inappropriate guilt
- Diminished concentration, or indecisiveness
- Frequent thoughts of death or suicide
- Having thoughts about hurting self
- Worrying about hurting baby
PPD can be hard to diagnose because new mothers' often feel shame and secrecy. Women are expected to have a love affair with their new babies,
so if they start having even mild symptoms of PPD, they may feel ashamed and guilty, thus new moms may be reluctant to get help.
They fear will be "locked up" or someone will take their baby away from them. PPD can also be hard to diagnose because so many of the
symptoms - like sleep disturbance, weight loss, and lack of energy - are a typical of new mothers. Therefore careful assessment by a
qualified professional is essential. Fortunately, you're psychotherapy sessions are completely confidential.
Treatment
Postpartum depression has been successfully treated with medications, psychotherapy, and alternative medicine.
There are several types of psychotherapy that have been shown to be effective for depression including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and
interpersonal therapy (IPT).
Research has shown that mild to moderate depression can often be treated successfully with either of these
therapies used alone. More severe depression may be best treated with a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Whether you take medication or other supplements, it's important to always check with your doctor, especially if you are breast-feeding.
As a Naturopathic Physician and Certified Clinical Nutritionist, I can also recommend alternative treatments in addition to our
therapy sessions.
Postpartum depression is a common disorder that is frequently unrecognized. Early identification and intervention are important,
especially if psychosis is suspected. The good news is that there are many proven treatments, including psychotherapy and medication.
With treatment, women suffering with PPD will be able to effectively manage difficulties of motherhood and also experience its joys.
