Post Partum Depression

What is Postpartum Depression?

It is a combination of physical, emotional, and behavioral changes that a new mother experiences shortly after giving birth. It can commonly be mistaken for baby blues.

Giving birth is a wild rollercoaster ride of complex emotional, hormonal and psychological changes in a woman's body. Most women are left with a feeling of isolation, guilt, irritation, or sadness. If these feelings do not start to get better 2-3 weeks after childbirth, chances are you are suffering from Postpartum Depression or PPD.

What are the common symptoms of Postpartum Depression?

• Difficulty bonding with the baby
• Thoughts of suicide or hurting someone else
• Irritated and angry all the time
• Constantly feeling guilty
• Tendency to withdraw from family, friends, and previously enjoyable activities
• Difficulty sleeping or severe fatigue
• Feeling worthless or helpless

“22% of new mothers in India suffer from postpartum depression”

Difference between Postpartum Depression and baby blues?

• Baby Blues
  • Typically begins two or three days after delivery and can last up to two weeks.
  • Symptoms may include crying, trouble sleeping, mood swings, or sadness.
  • Symptoms may not be very severe and may start fading in 5-6 days
• Postpartum Depression
  • Symptoms may begin in the first few weeks after giving birth or earlier during pregnancy
  • May last for up to a year or even more
  • Symptoms for PPD are more severe as compared to baby blues

Risk factors of Postpartum Depression

• History of depression, personally or in family
• Unplanned or unwanted pregnancy
• Postpartum depression from a previous pregnancy
• Stressful events (financial problems, illness, family issues, etc.)
• Lack of support system during pregnancy

How to prepare

• Educate yourself on maternal mental health from certified care providers.
• Communicate with your partner and be honest about your feelings.
• Talk to your care provider early about your concerns.
• Define your support system (family, friends, community, etc.)

Managing PPD

• Consult with a professional therapist or psychiatrist with whom you can communicate.
• Communicate with people who you can trust openly.
• Prioritize exercise, sleep, and a healthy diet, even if it’s challenging.
• Make time to relax and do things that make you happy.
• Align your feelings with your partner.