Postpartum depression (PPD) is a type of depression that affects women after giving birth. This type of depression often arises from emotional, hormonal, physical, social, and financial changes that follow after having a baby. However, postpartum depression affects both birth parents, surrogates, and adoptive parents as well. Postpartum depression affects up to 15 percent of mothers and could last as long as 30 weeks postpartum.
What are Some Signs and Symptoms of Postpartum Depression?
• Excessive crying
• Severe mood swings
• Insomnia or excessive sleeping
• Fatigue
• Withdrawing from family and friends
• Intense irritability and anger
• Fear of not being a good mother
What Is Postpartum Psychosis?
Postpartum psychosis is a rare condition with severe symptoms that develop within the first week after delivery. Some of its symptoms include:
1. Hallucination
2. Obsessive thoughts about the baby
3. Feelings of confusion
4. Feeling paranoid
5. Gaining or losing weight
6. Feeling panicked or scared all the time
Who is at Risk for Presenting with Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum depression often arises in new moms but it can arise after the birth of any child not necessarily the first. However, your risk of experiencing this type of depression may increase in:
∼ Bipolar disorder.
∼ History of postpartum depression in the past.
∼ A child with special needs.
∼ Difficulty in breastfeeding.
∼ Baby with a health condition.
∼ Financial difficulties.
∼ No plan to have a child.
How Long Does Postpartum Depression Last?
If left untreated, postpartum depression can last for months and even become a continuous depressive disorder.
How Can Postpartum Depression Be Prevented?
Most healthcare providers monitor pregnant people closely for signs and symptoms of depression. In some cases, they may require you to complete a depression questionnaire during your pregnancy for proper evaluation. Sometimes, your provider may recommend antidepressants to help alleviate your symptoms.
After delivery, most healthcare providers may recommend an early postpartum checkup to ascertain symptoms of postpartum depression. The earlier it is discovered; the earlier treatment can begin.
How Does Postpartum Depression Affect My Child?
PPD can cause mood swings, anxiety, sadness, irritability, and other symptoms that can interfere with daily activities and bonding with the baby.
PPD can affect your child in the following ways:
1. Difficulty bonding with your baby.
2. Your baby does not breastfeed for long
3. Your baby may not get the adequate medical care he deserves because postpartum depression makes it nearly impossible for you to take care of your baby.
Self-Care Tips
1. There is some evidence suggesting that Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) mutations may increase the risk of PPD. MTHFR enzyme is involved in the metabolism of folate, which is essential for the development and function of the nervous system. Mutations in the MTHFR gene can affect folate metabolism and increase the risk of various health conditions, including PPD. In this instance methyl folate could help.
A study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Canada found that women with the MTHFR gene mutation were more likely to experience PPD. Another study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that women with the MTHFR gene mutation who had low levels of folate were at a higher risk of PPD.
Omega-3 benefits are known to include relieving depression and feelings of anxiety. There are 3 types of omega-3 fats exist; alpha- linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentanoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). EPA and DHA are found in cold-water fish, while ALA is found in plant foods. Omega-3 fats can reduce inflammation and the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, depression and arthritis. Studies show that supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids may be helpful for alleviating symptoms of postpartum depression. The recommended daily intake of omega-3 during pregnancy and postpartum is 200-300mg of DHA (one of the main types of omega-3 fatty acids) per day. This is also helpful in supporting the development of the baby's brain and nervous system, as well as reduce the risk of postpartum depression.
2. Low tissue levels of DHA are reported in patients with postpartum depression.
TOP 10 sources of omega-3 fats include:
•Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines, trout
•Shell fish to include oysters
•Brussels Sprout
•Perilla seeds
•Hemp Seeds
•Flaxseeds
•Purslane
•Walnuts
•Algae
•Krill
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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