Learn the symptoms of postpartum depression
Having a new baby is a wonderful time in life but not everyone always feels happy after having a baby. Women experience many physical and emotional changes during pregnancy and the months after pregnancy. Some women may experience feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness after giving birth. Read on to learn more about postpartum depression.
What is Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum depression is described as having feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness after birth for more than two weeks. It is more common than people realize and affects one in every nine mothers. It is normal to feel overwhelmed after having a new baby but if you have symptoms of depression for more than two weeks, you need to consult with a healthcare provider.
How Do I Know If I Have Postpartum Depression?
The symptoms of postpartum depression include:
- Feelings of restlessness
- Being moody
- Feeling sad, hopeless, worthlessness, guilty, or overwhelmed
- Lack of energy or motivation
- Crying a lot
- Having thoughts of hurting yourself or the baby
- Not having any interest in the baby
- Not feeling connected to the baby
- Eating too much or too little
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Difficulty making decisions or focusing
- Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy
- Withdrawing from loved ones
- Headaches, pain, and stomach problems that do not go away
What are the Baby Blues?
The baby blues have similar symptoms to postpartum depression but they usually go away within 3 to 5 days. The symptoms of postpartum depression are more severe and last longer.
How is Postpartum Depression Treated?
The treatment of postpartum depression will depend on the severity and the individual. Most cases of postpartum depression are successfully treated with medication and / or therapy.
What Do I Do If I Have Postpartum Depression?
If you think you may have postpartum depression, reach out to one of your healthcare providers for an assessment. They will be able to help you and recommend a treatment. Many women feel ashamed or embarrassed to talk about postpartum depression. Don’t feel guilty about what you are experiencing and talk to your partner or a loved one so they can understand what you are going through.
Resources
- Postpartum depression. Postpartum depression | Office on Women’s Health. (n.d.). Retrieved February 17, 2023
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