Postpartum Depression
Hormonal changes, changing family roles, the challenges of caring for a newborn and family-related stress may cause at least half of women to experience mild emotional changes after childbirth, commonly known as the baby blues. These symptoms do not usually interfere significantly with daily life or caring for the newborn and generally improve within two weeks.
If the symptoms persist beyond two weeks or the mood changes become severe, this may indicate postnatal depression. Research suggests that postnatal depression can affect a mother’s ability to care for her baby and may adversely affect the baby’s physical health, cognitive development, behaviour and emotional well-being.
Partners may also be more likely to experience emotional distress, potentially leading to increased conflict in daily life. Symptoms of postnatal depression should therefore not be overlooked, and professional support should be sought when needed.
Common Symptoms of Postnatal Depression
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Physical symptoms: Loss of appetite, insomnia, tiredness and lack of energy
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Emotional symptoms: Persistent low mood, ongoing anxiety, excessive worry, agitation or irritability
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Cognitive symptoms: Persistent negative thoughts, excessive self-blame or inappropriate guilt, feelings of hopelessness, and recurrent thoughts of giving up on life or harming the baby
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Behavioural symptoms: Indecisiveness, difficulty concentrating and slowed responses
Causes of Postnatal Depression
The causes of postnatal depression are not yet fully understood. However, medical professionals generally believe that the rapid hormonal changes occurring after childbirth may play a role. Other factors that may increase the risk of postnatal depression include:
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A personal history of depression or postnatal depression
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Premature birth or health problems affecting the baby
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A lack of support from a partner
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Multiple ongoing difficulties, such as housing or financial problems
Treatment for Postnatal Depression
Treatment depends primarily on the severity of the condition and may include medication and psychological therapy. Most patients experience an improvement in their symptoms following appropriate treatment. The doctor will recommend a treatment plan suited to each individual’s needs. Support and understanding from the patient’s partner are also very important throughout the recovery process.
Some newer antidepressants pass into breast milk only in very small amounts and may be suitable for women who are breastfeeding. The doctor will assess the potential benefits and risks before recommending medication, and patients should not stop breastfeeding or change their medication without medical advice.
Psychological therapy can help patients monitor their mood, modify negative patterns of thinking and behaviour, and adjust more positively to the changes and challenges that follow childbirth.