If you are an expecting mother or father, or you simply want to look out for the best interests of someone in your life who will soon be giving birth, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the signs of postpartum depression.
Postpartum depression can cause major issues to the mother, the child and anyone who cares about these individuals. To ensure that your loved ones can get the care they deserve if they are showing signs of postpartum depression, we want to talk about some of the symptoms and warning signs that may develop following childbirth.
Postpartum Depression – What Is It?
Postpartum depression is a complex mix of physical, emotions and behavioral changes that can develop in some women after they give birth. Due to its complex nature, symptoms may vary from patient to patient, so while there are some signs to look for, postpartum depression will look different to everyone.
Postpartum depression is a form of depression that develops within four weeks of giving birth, and it is brought on by the intense physical, chemical and social changes you experience during childbirth and the first few weeks with your child. Caring for a newborn is exhausting, and this round-the-clock attention will take its toll on everyone. You’re going to feel tired, stressed and you may feel like a failure if certain aspects of childcare are proving difficult (trust us, you’re anything but a failure). These new stresses can affect your mental health and lead to the onset of postpartum depression.
Signs Of Postpartum Depression
As we mentioned above, postpartum depression presents in different ways based on the individual. Your loved one may not be dealing with all of the following symptoms, but if a few of these symptoms are present, consider having a conversation with them or with a healthcare provider.
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Crying a lot more than normal
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Seeming disinterested in the new baby
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Drastic mood swings
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Quick to anger
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Loss of enjoyment in life
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Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
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Getting down on yourself easily
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A desire to sleep all the time
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Thoughts about self-harming
Your life will change drastically with the introduction of a newborn, so it’s not uncommon to experience some of the above symptoms on the list. Wanting to nap in the middle of the day because you were up feeding your baby multiple times at night is completely normal, but if you are struggling to pull yourself out of bed in the morning and you are neglecting self care because all you want to do is sleep, you’ll want to have a conversation with your OBGYN about postpartum depression and treatment.
Like the condition itself, treatment of postpartum depression is highly unique to the individual. Your doctor will want to work to improve specific aspects of your physical, mental and emotional health, so there’s no one-size-fits-all solution to overcoming your postpartum depression. Your doctor will have an open and honest conversation with you about your experiences and may have you complete some assessments or screening tests to get to the root of the issue.
While postpartum depression tends to resolve on its own within three months of giving birth, you shouldn’t just assume it will go away on its own. Medications or different types of talk therapy can help improve your mental and emotional health, as can things like dietary improvements, regular exercise and improved sleep.
Caring for a newborn is tiring and stressful, and while it will all be worth it in the end, you may experience some physical, mental and emotional changes that manifest in the form of postpartum depression. Know the warning signs and speak up if you recognize symptoms of postpartum depression. For more information, or to set up an appointment with the team at MetroPartners OBGYN, reach out to our clinic today at (651) 770-3320.