Finding Your Way Through Postpartum Depression
Caring for a new infant while recovering from the physical stress of labor and delivery can be emotionally and mentally challenging. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, one in nine women experiences postpartum depression, or PPD, a form of depression that can arise following childbirth. Fortunately, treatment and self-care measures can get you through this trying time. Vitality Family Chiropractic Wellness Center can help you from a physical perspective before and after birth with services designed especially for pre- and postpartum care.
What is Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum depression is characterized by a wide-spanning range of different feelings following the birth of your child. It could be as minor as an occasional low mood, and as serious as becoming despondent and suicidal. While severe symptoms should be addressed with an immediate 911 call, it’s important to stay in regular contact with your OB/GYN provider after birth. Keep an eye out for anything that resembles PPD, especially if the symptoms persist for more than two weeks. While of course, new mothers are experiencing hormonal and physical changes paired with a lack of sleep a new baby brings, PPD is something more serious that may need medical or therapeutic interventions.
What Causes Postpartum Depression?
A woman’s body goes through many changes as part of the gestational process, and a feeling of depression can arise following childbirth. According to Mayo Clinic, this is characterized by mood swings, sadness, poor sleeping, and crying, among other symptoms. In the past, this used to be known as “baby blues,” and was originally thought to be attributed to physical recovery and making the transition to new motherhood. There are varying levels of PPD, including a more severe form known as postpartum psychosis, which includes confusion and disorientation, and feelings of wanting to hurt yourself or your baby. This form of PPD requires immediate medical intervention.
Talking About It
In the past, many women have been hesitant to talk about their PPD symptoms, feeling it would signal their inadequacy as a mother. Nothing could be farther from the truth, and talking about it in families and in society can help reduce the stigma that used to be associated with this condition. Obstetricians, gynecologists, midwives, and pediatricians are all trained to recognize the symptoms of PPD and talk openly with women about ways to make their way through this often debilitating condition. Interestingly, new fathers can also experience a non-hormonal form of PPD that can stem from the stress that comes with the changing family and partnership dynamics that come with the birth of a child. PPD is more common in women and men with a history of depression.
PPD Treatment Approaches
There are a variety of treatment options for women with PPD. These include talk therapy and medical intervention. Self-care is also essential during this time. Ask for help when you need it and give yourself time to rest and recover. Eat well, participate in light physical activity, and treat yourself with kindness. Buy clothing like compression leggings that will help your body start feeling “normal” again. Get adequate sleep, even if it means pulling in other people to help with nightly childcare. Take the time you need to bond with your baby while you’re in recovery.
Postpartum depression used to be dismissed as a woman’s issue with no consequence, but fortunately advances in women’s health care have created pathways for identifying and treating the condition. If you, your partner, or someone else you care for is exhibiting PPD symptoms, get in touch with an OB/GYN as soon as possible, or call 911 in the case of an emergency situation.
Vitality Family Chiropractic Wellness Center of Jacksonville, FLA promotes self-care and holistic approaches to wellness. Book your appointment today.