Postpartum Depression and Treatment
Postpartum depression (PPD) impacts many women
Research shows that one in seven women develop and experience postpartum depression (Mughal et al., 2022). Pregnancy and labor can be very impactful experiences for many women. Hormones and other factors can lead to many physical and emotional changes throughout pregnancy and labor. Due to this, some women experience “baby blues” which can last for a few weeks after the baby’s birth. However, when the waves of sadness and gloom continue and affect everyday life that is when it becomes PPD. PPD can highly affect the way a women functions and feels daily while trying to take care of a new infant. Due the stigma surrounding PPD, it goes highly undiagnosed because women are afraid to show sadness after having a baby.
Treatment for PPD is so important for women so they can return to their normal ability and function
Treatment and support will allow them to enjoy the new journey of being a parent. According to Mayo Clinic, psychotherapy or talk therapy can be very helpful for PPD. Psychotherapy can be a good way for mothers to find ways to cope with feelings, solve problems, and set realistic goals for their current state of life (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2022). Psychotherapy can also be a safe space for a mother to express feelings without judgement and fear.
Medications can be helpful for the prolonged feelings of sadness and gloom
Antidepressants can be prescribed to help regulate emotions. The Mayo Clinic explains that most antidepressants can be used during breastfeeding with little risk of side effects for the baby and it is important to talk with a health provider to weigh the potential risks and benefits of specific antidepressants.
Lifestyle Changes Can Help
Some lifestyle changes and home remedies that can help the process of treating PPD are making healthy lifestyle choices (physical activity and implementing healthy foods), getting enough rest, avoiding alcohol and other substances, set realistic expectations, make time for yourself, avoid isolation, and ask for help when needed.
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