Postpartum Depression

Postpartum Depression

Many women, after having a baby, experience bouts of mood swings. During such a period, it is not unusual to see them happy and elated one instant only to burst into tears the next. This condition is known as the "baby blues" - or more precisely, "postpartum depression."

What is Postpartum Depression?

Postpartum depression is a condition suffered only by women after pregnancy. The symptoms usually manifest themselves within 3 to 4 days after delivery and may last for several days afterward. During such a time, the woman suffering from postpartum depression may feel down, have a hard time concentrating, lose her appetite, and exhibit all other symptoms commonly associated with clinical depression, including:

* Loss or decrease of interest or pleasure in many daily activities

* Loss or decrease of energy and feelings of fatigue, both mentally and physically

* Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep (insomnia), disturbed sleep patterns; or conversely, sleeping more than usual (hypersomnia)

* Increased tendency to get emotional for no apparent reason, tearfulness

* Feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, or guilt

* Marked and unexplained weight loss or gain

* Excessive worrying or anxiety over hurting the baby

A large percentage of women experience postpartum depression after childbirth. For some, the symptoms may not start until several weeks or months later. As such, if you feel suddenly down within six months of childbirth, there is every chance your condition might be postpartum depression.

Who are susceptible to Postpartum Depression?

The likelihood of postpartum depression increases if:

* You had previous postpartum depression
* You had depression (not related to pregnancy)
* You suffered or continually suffer from severe premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
* You had a difficult marriage
* You have few family members or friends to talk to or depend on
* You had gone through stressful life events during pregnancy or after the childbirth

What causes Postpartum Depression?

The more common question asked is why women get postpartum depression. The exact cause of the condition is yet unknown. Some believe that the change in the hormone levels during pregnancy and right after childbirth may have something to do with the development of the condition. The change may cause the chemical balance in the brain to change, thus triggering the symptoms of depression.

How long does Postpartum Depression last?

How long the condition lasts varies with each patient. Some women report that they feel better within a few weeks after first feeling "down." Others report that the feelings of hopelessness and emptiness last for many months, during which time they feel they are "not themselves."

Women who have experienced severe depression not related to pregnancy may experience postpartum depression for more than the normal few weeks. In either case, always remember that help is always around.