What is Postpartum Depression?

When a mother gives birth to a baby, it is usually a happy occasion. Despite the pain and discomfort, birthmarks are the end of a long pregnancy and the start of a new life. However, birth is also an important period for the health of both the mother and her newborn. The priority should be to address the concerns, as failure to do so may result in disease for one or both parties. Nonetheless, postpartum care is commonly overlooked in maternity care. The absence of postpartum care ignores the fact that most mother illnesses begin during childbirth.

What is postpartum?

After the newborn is born, the "postpartum" period begins. It is often assumed to continue six to eight weeks following birth since the consequences of pregnancy take time for women's bodies to restore to a pre-pregnancy state. (Returning to a non-pregnant state includes, among other things, hormone levels and uterus size.)

"Baby Blues" is another term for postpartum depression.

What are the Symptoms of Baby Blues?

The baby blues usually start during the first two to three days following birth and can last up to two weeks. The majority of women endure "baby blues," which include

Mood Swings

Feeling low

Alone

Crying

Anxiety

Sleeping difficulties

If Postpartum Depression is not treated, it can be dangerous for the new mom and her baby

There is no one cause of postpartum depression, however, the following physical and emotional factors may contribute:

 Hormones- The rapid decline in estrogen and progesterone after giving birth could be a factor. Other hormones generated by the thyroid gland may also fall sharply, leaving you tired and sluggish, and sad.

 Lack of Sleep- When you're sleep-deprived and overwhelmed, you may struggle to deal with even simple concerns.

 Anxiety- You may be concerned about your capacity to care for a newborn.

Self-image- You may feel less attractive, question your identity, or believe you've lost control of your life. Postpartum depression can be caused by any of these factors.

As many as 70% of mothers have "baby blues" in the days following childbirth. Postpartum depression is a serious disorder that should be brought to the attention of your Gynecologist as soon as possible so that therapy can start. Family members of the new mother should also come to her support, provide her guidance and advice and speak to her if they observe any symptoms.