Postpartum depression is a form of major depression which begins within 4 weeks of the delivery and is diagnosed if the symptoms last up to six months. It gets severe if the symptoms are not addressed.
Frequency
Postpartum depression is a form of major depression which begins within 4 weeks of the delivery. It affects 50 to 75% of mothers and further has a long lasting effect on 15% of mothers.
Symptoms
Periods of sadness, excessive crying, lack of pleasure or interest, no or diminishing interest in the baby, self-harming thoughts, thoughts of harming the baby, fatigue, irritability, insomnia or hypersomnia, guilt and reduced decision making
Causes
The chemical changes in the woman’s body are rapid, production levels of estrogen and progesterone are increased during pregnancy and they drop down to normal within 3 days post pregnancy.
Other Causes
Marital conflicts, unwanted pregnancy, more number of children, limited support, going through the pregnancy alone.
If a woman has a history of depression or a family history, it may be beneficial to mention it to your doctor so they can monitor you for onset of any symptoms.
Treatment
Psychotherapy, medications, lifestyle changes and other forms of therapy have proven to be helpful in the treatment for postpartum depression.