Depression

In the past when a new mother experienced sadness, had trouble sleeping, got teary or weepy or felt anxious for no reason her troubles where dismissed as “baby blues”. Now of course, doctors realize the seriousness of postpartum depression and the effect it can on the health of both mother and child. This understanding has lead to better postpartum depression treatment.

The first few weeks of an infant’s life are extremely important and busy to the new mother. The baby is completely dependent on the new family. This tiny person will need food, comfort, and lots of diapers. The baby will also be bonding with the new family during this new time in particularly with Mom. It is natural to feel a little stressed as the baby will have no respect for the parents sleep patterns, meals or need for some space.

Postpartum Depression is more than being in need of some sleep. This is why doctors have recognized a need for better diagnoses and postpartum depression treatment. Postpartum depression or PPD is usually a temporary form of depression related specifically to pregnancy and childbirth. It has two forms: early onset which is usually the milder form and late onset which is often much more severe.

Early onset is reported to effect as many as 80% of women shortly after they deliver their baby. This form usually resolves within a few weeks with or without postpartum depression treatment. Late onset is the more serious form and affects 10%-16% and often doesn’t demonstrate symptoms until weeks after delivery. In the case of later onset postpartum depression treatment, is very important as it can threaten the health and emotional well-being of mother and child.

The symptoms of postpartum depression can leave a woman feeling she can’t take care of herself or her baby. Intense feelings of guilt, sadness or fear make small tasks become almost impossible. Doctors now believe these two types of depression are less related to the new stressful responsibility of the baby and more to do with hormonal changes caused by childbirth. Women should be open when speaking with their doctor about feelings of being overwhelmed or fearful since early detection and postpartum depression treatment are essential to maintain the health of both mother and baby.