Postpartum depression occurs when mood changes occur after childbirth. According to reports, the most important factors for postpartum depression are hormonal fluctuations and endocrine problems that influence an individual’s response. Click for source!
The depressive episodes start insidiously, three to six months after childbirth. This is different from maternityblues because the latter doesn’t impair functioning, and it occurs for 50 to 80% of women. The symptoms range in severity from guilt, to a desire to protect or harm the child. Postpartum depression can be more debilitating that the “blues.” This condition is characterized by despondency as well tears, feelings of inadequacy guilt, anxiety irritability, fatigue and anxiety.
Physical symptoms can include chest pains, hyperventilation, and hypersensitivity to light. A woman who is suffering from postpartum Depression may view her child with negativity, ambivalence or disinterest. The bond between mother & child can be adversely affected. The syndrome is not well understood and studied. Therefore, it is often underreported. The estimated incidence ranges from 3% up to 20%. The depression could start anytime between delivery and 6 month post-birth and last for months, or even years. In postpartum Depression, the major symptoms are not present. These include insomnia and melancholia. Maternity blues, on the other hand can be characterized by crying, irritability, or euphoria.
The course is also different. In the case of maternity-blues, it can last from three to ten day postpartum and in the case depression after childbirth, six to eight months. For maternity blues, pharmacological intervention is usually not warranted. However, postpartum Depression is treated with medications.
Postpartum depressive disorder is an illness just like diabetes and heart disease. Postpartum depressive symptoms can impact your quality and life.
Feeling depressed or sad frequently
* Frequent or prolonged crying
* Feeling restless and irritable
* Loss interest or enjoyment in life
* Loss in appetite
* Loss of energy and motivation
* Sleeping difficulties, including difficulty falling or staying asleep.
* Feeling worthless or hopeless
* Unreported weight gain or weight loss
Feelings that life’s not worth living
* Not showing much interest in your child
For problems that arise due to the maternity Blues, interventions like reassurance support and psychoeducation are best.
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