What is the cause of postpartum depression?
The birth of a baby can bring a rollercoaster of emotions it from joy and excitement to fear and anxiety. It can also result in something unexpected- depression.
Most new moms can experiencae postpartum after childbirth, which commonly includes mood swings, crying spells, anxiety and difficulty sleeping. Let us learn more about this because this needs to be discussed.
What is Postpartum Depression?
Depression suffered by a mother following childbirth, typically arising from the combination of hormonal changes, psychological adjustment to motherhood and fatigue, is postpartum depression.
It is a serious but treatable medical illness that may come with some symptoms like intense sadness and anxiety. Here are some symptoms of postpartum depression:
- Overwhelming sadness, despair and anxiety
- Frequent crying
- Trouble sleeping
- Changes in appetite
- Difficulty bonding with the baby
- Trouble concentrating
- Intense fatigue
- Feelings of incompetence
When to Seek Expert Advice?
You often need “Antenatal care near me” during your pregnancy period if you have a high-risk pregnancy or experience any complications. If you are feeling depressed after the baby’s birth and need to discuss some things with someone who understands and you won’t feel embarrassed, you might need an expert.
Sometimes we discuss things with our healthcare professionals that we find embarrassing to discuss without family members. It is completely natural and fine to contact your healthcare provider and discuss things. It is important to call your provider as soon as possible if the symptoms of depression have any of these features:
- If you are not feeling okay or having a hard to caring for your baby.
- Include thoughts of abundance or anxiety.
- If depression, anxiety or fatigue are getting worse over time
- If you are facing difficulties in completing everyday tasks
Now, here are some specific causes of postpartum depression you can understand ahead in this guide.
Causes of Postpartum Depression
| Cause | Explaination |
| Hormonal Changes | After childbirth, the levels of estrogen and progesterone decrease dramatically, which may trigger depression similarly to how smaller hormonal fluctuations can cause premenstrual mood swings. Thyroid hormone levels may also drop, and low thyroid function can cause symptoms of depression. |
| Lifestyle Factors | Individuals with a history of depression or other psychiatric disorders, or a family history of postpartum depression, are at a higher risk. Feelings of self-doubt, anxiety about being a good parent, or an unplanned pregnancy can also play a role. Insufficient support from family and friends is a significant risk factor. It is absolutely normal for new mothers to feel isolated and alone, so do not hesitate to reach for help. Whether you find it comfortable to discuss with a friend or a family member, reach out. |
| Other | Physical changes during and after pregnancy can impact mood. Anxiety, depression and feelings of isolation are completely normal and expected in pregnancy and after giving birth. Physical and mental changes can happen, and you can visit for antenatal care enar you for the expert guidance. |
FAQs: Postpartum Depression and Antenatal Care
Q1. How does antenatal care help with postpartum depression?
Antenatal care provides psychological and psychoeducational support to the new mothers. It helps establish a support system to address factors like social conflict or personal history. This proactive approach can prevent or reduce the severity of postpartum depression by giving women the tools and support they need to manage mental health challenges throughout their pregnancy and after delivery.
Q2. How to avoid depression after giving birth?
Prioritise self-care by getting enough rest, eating nutritious food, and incorporating physical activity like walking. Stay socially connected to avoid isolation. Do not overdo anything or overwork yourself. Give your body time to recover and practice meditation or yoga for a relaxed body and mind.
Q3. What must be avoided for new mothers?
Strenuous exercise, consuming large amounts of caffeine, and eating fish with high mercury levels are usually not recommended to new mothers. Other things to avoid include alcohol, certain herbal supplements, highly processed foods, and exposure to secondhand smoke. It is also crucial to consult an expert before taking any pain relief medication or before giving anything to the baby.
Final Thoughts
At CSMC, get your postpartum depression resolved with the help of professional guidance. We understand that the pregnancy journey and after birth is a new life to a woman, also, so we also provide help and guidance in these times.
Motherhood is a beautiful journey, and you can ask for help whenever you feel like it. There is no need to deal with anxiety, depression and fatigue alone. CSMC experts are here to provide expert services so that the baby and you can have a relaxed journey ahead.