Postpartum Depression

When a baby is born, it can evoke emotions of all kinds--from exhilaration and pleasure to fright and panic. These can be expected, but it is rather shocking when a combination of these emotions unites and become depression.

Many new mothers are affected by a mild form of short-term depression called the "baby blues." This condition typically lasts no more than a few weeks following delivery. Based on a study conducted by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, an estimated ten percent of new moms deal with postpartum depression, a more arduous form of depression that can take effect within the first six months following childbirth. Females with postpartum depression develop feelings like sadness, anxiety, and agitation that are forceful enough to hamper everyday routines. Postpartum depression will sometimes evolve into a more severe kind of depression referred to as postpartum psychosis.

Enduring a period of depression following childbirth is not something to be ashamed of. Sometimes, it simply cannot be avoided and is more common than you think. If you are a recent mother who has experienced symptoms related to depression, your condition is treatable, and you can return to enjoying your child.

Causes

So far, it is indeterminable what causes postpartum depression, but physical, emotional, and lifestyle factors may all play a part.

Physical changes -- considerable reduction in estrogen and progesterone may induce depression. There also may be a sizeable drop-off in hormones produced by your thyroid gland, leaving you overwhelmed by exhaustion, lethargic, and depressed. Alterations in your blood volume and pressure, immune system, and metabolic process can contribute to fatigue and sudden changes in emotion.
Emotional factors -- When you haven't gotten much sleep and feel overburdened, even minor problems may cause you to lose control of yourself. A mother may:
- Be worried whether she is capable of caring for an infant.
- View herself as less attractive or struggle with who they are.
- Feel that she can no longer manage her life.

Lifestyle influences -- Numerous aspects of a woman's lifestyle can lead to depression such as:
- A needy baby or dependent older brothers or sisters.
- Breast feeding troubles.
- Exhaustion.
- Monetary issues.
- Minimal support from spouse or other family members and friends.

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