What is postpartum depression?
How women come to acquire the disorder and how to adjust to the physical and emotional changes? The causes and risks of postpartum depression are generally a result of hormone imbalance. Postpartum depression can be a serious disorder, and there can be major risks when the signs and symptoms are ignored. Often women will mask the symptoms and hide their feelings which can result in serious problems in long term.
The health of a woman for carrying and delivering a baby after nine months is extremely important. Sadly a small percentage of women suffer from the medical disorder known as postpartum depression. Facts show that when a woman hits the third trimester of her pregnancy her body is producing up to 10 times the usual hormone progesterone.
First let’s look at the hormonal aspect of pregnancy. Women produce two main hormones which are known as estrogen and progesterone. These hormones are very important for balance and growth of the fetus and the placenta. If there is an imbalance in production and release there can be problems with relation to the baby’s size, and the woman’s ability to produce milk.
Shortly after the baby is delivered the doctor will remove the placenta. The role of placenta during pregnancy is to produce progesterone. Many women suffer low levels of both hormones after birth. The hormone progesterone acts like an antidepressant and after delivery many women become depressed. When these hormone levels bottom out, many women start to have an unbalanced sense of well being and become depressed.
The Common Symptoms of Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression also known as PPD. This kind of depression can be a serious disorder if it is not dealt with appropriately. Women tend to become withdrawn, feeling down, sad and hopelessness after the delivery of their baby. Many women experience increased levels of anxiety. If these symptoms and feelings are not dealt quickly the disorder may worsen to a level known as postpartum psychosis. It is important that the patient communicates these symptoms and feelings with their partner, or health professional. It is also very important to know that you are not alone and there is a bright side ahead.
Many professionals suggest and prescribe antidepressants to women who are suffering the side effects associated with PPD. Treatment depends on what exactly the woman is going through, whether or not she is breast feeding, and other considerations. It is important that new mothers have a solid support base. The health of Mom and Baby are the most important aspect in dealing with postpartum depression.
