The symptoms of Postpartum Depression in new mothers

Postpartum Depression or PPD is a form of depression that manifests itself in women after childbirth. Known to affect approximately 9% to 16% of all new mothers, the disorder typically appears within to weeks of childbirth. The condition can have a devastating effect on the life of the new mother, as well as the lives of those around her. It is thus essential that it be recognised and treated as swiftly as possible.

There are three main sub- types of Postpartum Depression, namely Postpartum Blues, Postpartum Depression and Postpartum Psychosis. Postpartum Blues or the 'baby blues' as it is commonly called is known to affect a vast majority of women after childbirth.

Symptoms of this sub-type of Postpartum Depression usually become apparent a first few hours after childbirth and may last anything from a few hours to a couple of weeks. During this period the new mother may feel uncharacteristically emotional and vacillate between feelings of extreme joy and extreme sadness. Symptoms typically disappear as hormone levels stabilise and thus do not require any form of medical or psychological treatment.

When symptoms do not ease at all or worsen over time it may be an indication that the condition is slightly more serious and requires medical and psychological attention. Postpartum Depression may include symptoms such as energy loss, insomnia, extreme weight loss or gain, tearfulness, indecisiveness and feelings of guilt and worthlessness. In addition, the condition may reveal itself in physical symptoms such as migraines, digestive problems, heart palpitations and difficulty breathing. If left untreated, symptoms of Postpartum Depression may continue for up to a year and seriously hinder the natural bonding process between a mother and her new baby.

Finally in its most serious form Postpartum Depression may manifest itself as Postpartum Psychosis. Postpartum Psychosis is an incredibly rare form of Postpartum depression that affects only 0, 1 to 0, 2 of pregnant women and new mothers. Symptoms of the disorder can become apparent during pregnancy or up to three months after childbirth and may include things like hallucinations, delusions, extreme confusion and a desire to hurt oneself or ones child.

Women who have suffered from other forms of neuropathy such as bipolar mood disorder are particularly susceptible to Postpartum Psychosis and thus should be carefully monitored both during pregnancy and after childbirth. Like other forms of Postpartum Depression, condition is treatable with medication, psychotherapy and support therapy. Unlike other forms of Postpartum Depression however, if left untreated the condition may be dangerous to the life of the new mother, her baby and those around her.

© The Pink Fridge Online Magazine 2008 - Postpartum Depression

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