Bringing new life into the world is a momentous and joyous occasion for any mother. However, it isn’t without its challenges. Mothers face the onslaught of overwhelming emotions, typically referred to as baby blues, immediately after childbirth.
Sometimes, these emotions and feelings can intensify into postpartum depression or PPD, a serious mental health condition that affects roughly one in ten new mothers.
Let’s discuss the causes of postpartum depression and the most effective treatments available to help new mothers get back to feeling like themselves.
Causes of Postpartum Depression (PPD)
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a type of clinical depression that affects women after giving birth. The exact causes of PPD are not known, but hormonal changes, stress, lack of sleep, and genetics are all considered to contribute and play a major role in causing PPD.
Women may also be at higher risk of developing PPD if they have a history of depression or other mental health issues, a difficult pregnancy or birth, or a lack of support from their family and friends.
â—Ź Genetics
Several genes that are involved in the regulation of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, are thought to be involved in the pathophysiology of PPD. Moreover, certain genetic variations may influence the way women respond to hormonal changes during and after pregnancy, which can also increase their risk of developing PPD.
â—Ź Hormonal Changes
Perhaps the most significant contributor to postpartum depression is the sudden and dramatic shift in hormones that occurs after childbirth. During pregnancy, the female body produces high levels of estrogen and progesterone, which help to support the growth and development of the fetus.
After delivery, these hormones reduce rapidly in the body, which can trigger a range of physical and emotional changes. Some women often experience mood swings, irritability, and difficulty sleeping, which are all common symptoms of the “baby blues.”
However, for some, these symptoms can intensify and persist for several weeks or even months after childbirth, leading to a diagnosis of postpartum depression.
â—Ź Stress & Lack of Sleep
Apart from hormonal changes, lack of sleep and stress are also major contributors to PPD. Newborn babies require constant care and attention, which can leave new mothers feeling exhausted and overwhelmed.
The added pressure of adjusting to a new role as a parent, managing a career and household responsibilities, while dealing with physical recovery from childbirth can also contribute to increased feelings of stress and anxiety.
Left untreated, postpartum depression can have serious consequences for both the mother and her baby. Women with PPD often have difficulties bonding with their baby. They may experience difficulty sleeping or eating, and have thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
To make matters worse, babies of mothers with PPD may also be at higher risk of developmental delays, behavioral problems, and attachment issues.
Treatments of Postpartum Depression (PPD)
Fortunately, there are several effective treatments available to help new mothers recover from postpartum depression. On average, 80 percent of PPD patients achieve a full recovery.
Here are the most common treatments:
â—Ź Therapy
Talk therapy, also known as psychotherapy, is a type of counseling that helps people identify and address the underlying causes of their depression. During therapy sessions, a trained therapist works with the mother to identify negative thought patterns and develop coping strategies to manage symptoms of depression.
Some common types of therapy used to treat PPD include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and psychodynamic therapy.
â—Ź Support
Support from friends and family, the baby’s father, or even a support group can also help treat PPD in new mothers. They can educate themselves on PPD and find emotional support to get them through this tough time.
Support groups in particular, can be an excellent source of comfort and encouragement for new mothers struggling with postpartum depression.
â—Ź Medication
Medication in the form of antidepressants is another effective treatment option for postpartum depression. Antidepressants work by balancing the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, which can help to improve the mother’s mood and reduce symptoms of depression.
Of course, it is important to work closely with your healthcare professional or expert virtual doctors before taking any medication during or after pregnancy, or while breastfeeding a newborn, to ensure the safety of both the mother and baby.
â—Ź Healthy Lifestyle
Lifestyle changes can also help manage symptoms and treat PPD. New mothers can benefit from getting plenty of rest, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in regular exercise, all of which can help boost their mood and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
Final Word
While baby blues are quite normal and mostly go away over a span of two weeks, the more serious postpartum depression is a condition that can have a negative impact on both mothers and their newborn babies.
Genetic factors, hormonal changes, stress, and lack of sleep can all contribute to PPD, which is why mothers should take good care after giving birth. Families should support new mothers through this period and seek professional help if symptoms of baby blues or PPD persist.
Remember, postpartum depression is a common and treatable condition.
If you or a loved one is experiencing baby blues or PPD, we highly recommend calling TelMDCare at (800) 230 2050, to book a virtual doctor appointment for easy online consultation with a specialist today!
