All About Postpartum Depression

What is PPD?

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a psychiatric disorder that occurs in women two to three days after they have given birth. Approximately 70 percent of women experience a lesser variation of PPD known as the “baby blues.” In this stage of PPD it is natural for women to become angry, anxious, and upset. The emotions felt during the “baby blues” typically disappear within a few days, however; clinical PPD occurs when symptoms become severe and last for more than one week. Women with clinical PPD have difficulty performing daily tasks and require counseling or medication.

Causes

There are a variety of causes of PPD, including lack of support, stress, physical problems, previous depression, and PMDD. It has shown that women who do not have support from family, friends, or their partner are at a greater risk. Stress influences the severity of baby blues and PPD; examples include marital issues, financial woes, and medical troubles. Women who have premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) or have a history of depression are at increased risks for developing PPD.

Symptoms

Women can experience symptoms of PPD within a week or two after child birth. Symptoms may not appear until a month or two after the birth, and include most of the symptoms associated with clinical depression. Three of the major symptoms include feeling hopeless, empty inside, and anxious. PPD is a debilitating disorder that disables women from performing daily tasks. Women have a harder time finding enjoyment in life and do not enjoy the same things they used to before the birth. Women have known to experience an increase or decrease in their appetite and weight. It has been reported that women have difficulty sleeping at night, even while their newborn is resting. With or without sleep, women may experience fatigue, energy loss, and difficulty concentrating. Women may feel guilty or worthless for no reason. In severe cases of PPD women have thoughts of death or suicide.

Prevention

In order to prevent PPD it is recommended that women receive plenty of rest and relaxation after delivery. Do not attempt to do too much at one time, taking on a little more each day. Attempt to sleep when the baby does, rather than using the time to accomplish tasks. There is nothing wrong with asking for help, which can help make the situation less overwhelming. It is important not to get into a “rut” after the delivery. Once you are medically capable, they should get out of the house. It is important to dress, shower, and leave the house each day. There is no shame in pampering oneself, which can reduce stress. Lastly, it is important not to bottle up emotions, talking to someone can help.

Treatment

It is important that PPD is detected early to avoid repercussions. Treatment falls under two categories: counseling and medication. Cognitive behavioral counseling can be used for less severe cases and involves both the mother and partner. This type of therapy attempts to modify the way in which you feel or behave. Interpersonal counseling focuses on relationships and changes that occur after child birth. It is advised that the partner is present for all forms of counseling as they can learn how to support the mother in a time of distress. A doctor may prescribe medication in the form of antidepressants in combination with therapy. While not a treatment option, it is advised mothers experiencing postpartum symptoms hire a nanny or aide to help with everyday tasks.

Resources for New Moms

How to Cope with Anxiety from PPD

Anxiety is one of the most common symptoms associated with PPD. It is important to deal with anxiety in a safe and healthy manner. Symptoms can be reduced by taking antidepressants and attending therapy, however; there are many ways to cope with it. It is critical to have a support system at home, someone you can talk to about the situation. Eliminate the “what if” statements from your life. You cannot control the past, only the present. Consider setting short term goals that you can meet and do not look into the future. Consider what you can do tomorrow rather than what you did not do yesterday.

Sleep Deprivation and PPD

Sleep deprivation is one of the symptoms for developing PPD. There are a variety of sleep disorders due to PPD, including insomnia, vivid dreaming, and restless leg syndrome. Women who have trouble sleeping often suffer from anxiety and do not want to leave their newborn. Insomnia occurs when the mother has difficulty falling asleep at night or during naps. In combination with current treatment women can lessen the symptoms of sleep deprivation. Do not eat or drink before bedtime, do not exercise before bed, do not drink caffeine, and consider taking a relaxing bath or shower before going to bed.

Antidepressants and Breastfeeding

Special consideration should be given if the mother will be breast feeding her newborn. Two types of antidepressants have proven to be safe to use, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and tricyclics. Women should be careful when taking SSRI medications because the medicine is found at low levels in the breast milk. Studies have shown that this does not impact the health of the child, but ensure that the right SSRI is being prescribed. Generally tricyclics are preferred because the medicine is not transmitted into the breast milk. Women should never stop taking an SSRI as they must be weaned off of the medicine by their doctor.

Disclaimer: The information provided within this site is not meant to be a substitute for a medical doctor's opinion. This site is for informational purposes ONLY. Please check with your medical practitioner before any type of treatment or prevention method is started.