Postpartum Depression
Introduction
Postpartum depression is a condition that can happen during the first months after childbirth (or after miscarriage or stillbirths). Postpartum depression is not the usual "baby blues," which usually go away within a couple of weeks. The symptoms of postpartum depression can last for months. In rare cases, a woman may have a severe form of depression called postpartum psychosis. Postpartum depression seems to be brought on by the changes in hormone levels that occur after pregnancy.
Overview and Facts
Postpartum depression is a common condition among postpartum women. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), the global rates of postpartum depression vary between 9-16% of postpartum women.
Symptoms
Symptoms of postpartum depression include:
- Feeling very sad, hopeless, and anxious
- Loss of pleasure in everyday activities
- Weight loss or gain
- Sleeping problems
- Loss of concentration
These symptoms can occur in the first day or two after the birth or they can follow the symptoms of the baby blues after a couple of weeks.
Causes and Risk Factors
Chances of getting postpartum depression increase with:
- A history of depression or postpartum depression
- Having poor support from the spouse, friends, or family
- Having a sick baby
- Having a lot of stress in life
The risk of postpartum psychosis can increase when a family member has bipolar disorder.
Tests and Diagnosis
For postpartum depression to be diagnosed, signs and symptoms of major depression must develop within four weeks of giving birth.
To distinguish between the baby blues and a more severe form of depression, the physician will ask for a full assessment for depression using specific tests and questionnaires. Also, the physician will ask for blood tests to determine whether a physical condition such as an underactive thyroid is contributing to the signs and symptoms.
Treatment
Postpartum depression is often treated by:
- Counseling
- Medication (such as antidepressants and hormone therapy)
- or a combination of the two
As for postpartum psychosis, it requires immediate treatment, often in the hospital (inpatient setting). A combination of medications and sometimes electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is recommended as well.
Sources and Links
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