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Postpartum Depression Postpartum Depression is caused after childbirth usually within the first few weeks after giving birth but can strike as much as a year after the birth of a child. It is thought that postpartum depression may be caused from hormonal changes. Depression is caused by a chemical imbalance within the brain and it happens twice as much in women as it does in men. Women are more apt to seek help than a man will. About 16% of all people suffer from some type of depression so you are not alone if you are suffering from depression and are trying to hide it. Postpartum Depression in a new mother can not only hurt her but it can hurt the baby and other family members around her. Since depression affects the personality, it can be dangerous for a woman with postpartum depression if she does not seek help from a professional. If you do seek help and your doctor prescribes a depression medication for you it must be one that is no risk to your baby is you are breast feeding. The doctor should explain the risks involved. However if you do not accept treatment, your depression can affect the baby’s development. The mother with postpartum depression may not have any energy, lack of concentration or decision making, be irritable, and may not be able to give her baby the love and affection it needs. This may cause her to have a low self esteem about herself as a mother and this can make the depression worse. These symptoms of the mother can affect the baby by causing delays in speech development, emotional bonding, behavioral problems, lower activity levels, sleep problems and also distress. If other members of the family can help, this will help the baby very much. Since babies need a healthy mom and moms deserve a healthy and normal life too, it is important to everyone concerned that the mother get a doctors help as soon as possible. It is common knowledge that a mother does not want to hurt her baby but that is what can happen if help is not obtained out as soon as possible. If you are living with a new mother or know of one who might be suffering from postpartum depression, try to get them to seek the help of a professional. The sooner they begin medications or therapy, the safer and healthier everyone will be. If you are still pregnant and think you may be suffering from depression, you need to seek help too. Depression during pregnancy can affect the baby as well as the mother. It is important that you seek the help of a professional and take a medication that will not harm your baby. This should be discussed with your doctor whether it is better to not take anything or better to take an antidepressant. All Text Copyright © Safety2005.org |
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