Welcome To Healthy Woman Obstetrics & Gynecology
Postpartum depression is a serious yet treatable problem. It is
important that all individuals understand the facts and know what to
look for in order to obtain the help necessary and the treatment needed
to recover fully.
Patients with postpartum depression may feel sadness, confusion, and
loneliness after giving birth to their child. It is essential that patients
do not ignore the signs of postpartum depression, also referred to as PPD.
By recognizing the signs, women can seek the support they need from family,
friends, and medical professionals to feel better about themselves and their
new position as a mother. Husbands, partners, and friends can help in caring for
those who they suspect are struggling with this condition and assist them in
getting the appropriate help for necessary diagnosis and treatment.
It is believed that approximately eight out of 10 women experience
postpartum depression, and it can occur within a year of birthing a
child or experiencing a miscarriage or stillbirth. It is not a sign of
weakness or a character flaw, and does not reflect on your ability to be
a mother. New mothers with postpartum depression may experience anywhere
from mild blues and sadness to severe levels of depression.
It is unknown what causes postpartum depression. However, some factors may
contribute to the development of PPD, including:
- Difficult pregnancy and childbirth
- Dramatic changes in hormones
- Diagnosed medical problems in mother or baby
- Feelings of loneliness
- Inability to sleep
- Changes in routine
- Lack of freedom / ability to leave the house
- Stress
- Prior diagnosis of postpartum depression
- Family history of depression
Any woman who has been pregnant, had a baby, miscarried, or has breastfed
may be at risk for postpartum depression. Women of any age, economic background,
or race may be at risk for developing this condition.
Signs and symptoms may be noticed anywhere between pregnancy and the first
year after childbirth. Some of the more common symptoms experienced include:
- Inability to enjoy life and activities that once brought happiness
- Inability to sleep, or never feeling rested
- Irritability
- Angriness
- Nervousness and anxiety
- No interest in the new child
- Feelings of exhaustion
- No interest in socializing with family and friends
- Lost sexual desire
- Feelings of guilt
- Uncontrollable crying
- Hopelessness
- Inability to concentrate
- Low levels of energy
- Thoughts of harm to baby or self
Woman may experience anything from mild symptoms to extreme signs of
postpartum depression.
Do you have postpartum depression? The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression
Scale has been used by primary care professionals to help determine if a
new mother is suffering from postpartum depression. Patients who take this
screening test should underline the response that best describes how they
feel or have felt within the last week. Most patients can complete this test
within a few minutes and can bring the survey to their 4-6 week postpartum
checkup. Click below for the appropriate documentation to print, complete,
and bring the assessment tool to your next visit.
Print the appropriate document below: