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Postpartum Depression: Woman
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The term postnatal (or postpartum) depression describes a condition occurring in a woman after giving birth to her child. The symptoms are depression, anxiety, lack of interest in the baby, and feelings of inadequacy and incompetence as a mother. It occurs among 10 to 15 percent of mothers after delivery, with onset at five to eight weeks after delivery. It is underestimated by professionals and often denied by women, who usually do not seek medical advice. It commonly lasts six months to a year or longer. It causes a lack of attunement in the mother and infant dyad and can lead to early developmental and psychosomatic problems in the baby, making diagnosis and treatment essential (Murray, L., et al., 1991; Mazet, P., 1997).
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[One] major factor in postpartum depression is lack of support from others. A new mother needs comfort and support during pregnancy and after delivery. She ... needs help with household chores and with childcare. Such support may be lacking for a single mother or for a woman whose family lives far away.
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Postpartum depression is treated differently depending on the type and severity of the woman's symptoms. Treatment options include antianxiety or antidepressant medicines, psychotherapy and participation in a support group for emotional support and education.
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About one out of every eight women has postpartum depression after delivery. It is the most common complication among women who have just had a baby. Postpartum depression is a serious medical condition. It is not something a woman can control. It is not a sign of being a bad mother. It poses risks for the woman and her baby. The most important things to do are:
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While some form of postpartum depression is common, some types are more serious than others. The least dangerous of these is called the postpartum blues. This milder form of depression does not interfere with a woman's ability to function normally or care for her child. This condition is characterized by rapid mood swings and periods of crying. Anxiety or irritability ... are common symptoms. Luckily, this condition usually passes, often without treatment.
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Like all forms of depression, postpartum depression creates a cloud of negative feelings and thoughts over a woman's view of herself, those around her, her situation, and the future. Under the cloud of depression, a woman might see herself as helpless or worthless. She might view her situation as overwhelming or hopeless. Things might seem disappointing, uninteresting, or without meaning. Keep in mind that the bleak negative perspective is part of depression.
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