Having a baby is generally considered a wonderful event. However, a significant number of women can experience feelings of sadness and overwhelming isolation in the days, weeks and even months after their baby is born. Over the nine months of pregnancy, obvious adjustments are made – not only physically and hormonally, but also mental and emotional changes. These are of course necessary in order to prepare for the new arrival. It is known that as many as one in every two new mothers suffer some degree of depression following childbirth. This can vary from a mild form, commonly referred to as "the baby blues" to postnatal depression, which can, in its severe form extend to puerperal psychosis.
Post-natal Depression
Post-natal depression is a condition which most recognise as particularly distressing, since it affects not only the mother, but her all-important relationship with her partner as well as their new born baby.
Support from family and friends can be of tremendous help. In addition, a number of women opt to seek professional assistance from counselling and psychotherapy.
The most familiar mental change, which tends to occur two-four days after delivery, is so frequently experienced, that it is considered as normal. Some of the commonest emotional reactions are mood swings, crying spells, irritability, feeling vulnerable and hence more easily upset, loneliness and utter exhaustion.
Puerperal Psychosis
Puerperal psychosis is the most extreme form of postnatal mood alteration. It is fairly rare, affecting 1 in 500. Puerperal refers to the six week period following childbirth, psychosis being any form of mental illness in which the sufferer loses contact with reality. Symptoms tend to be evident within a short time after the birth and usually start with restlessness, mild confusion and an inability to sleep.
It may start with a bout of the baby blues, which tends to get worse, or it may take a little longer to develop, being most obvious when the baby is four to six months old.
Causes for Feeling Depressed
To date the exact cause of depression is not entirely clear. Certain contributory factors have been suggested, including the following:
- birth experience: A natural, uncomplicated and hopefully non-traumatic event is ideal, but a difficult birth or a premature/unwell baby may dampen previous ideas.
- lifestyle adjustments: Sudden responsibility 24 hours a day understandably can create mixed emotions. Loss of sleep, not to mention the loss of freedom, can put enormous strain on the mother and all those involved.
- social circumstances: Women who are isolated from their families or are without a supportive partner are more likely to suffer depression after birth. Having experienced stressful events, such as bereavement or serious illness, can also contribute.
- biological factors: A temporary thyroid gland defect affects a small number of women. A previous history of depression can be a significant factor to the development of post-natal depression. A broad spectrum of symptoms varying in severity can be experienced, including despondency, tearfulness, irritability, extreme tiredness, insomnia, mood swings, guilt, lack of interest and hopelessness.
A Nutritious Diet and Supplementation
Supplementing with vitamin B-100 complex and a zinc supplement can strengthen the nervous system. Homeopathic remedies can be of tremendous help but work only on an individual basis. A qualified practitioner can prescribe a suitable remedy. Taking time to consume a healthy, well-balanced, nutritious diet will go a long way to nourishing the entire system.
When baby arrives it can be a time of mixed emotions. It demands lifestyle change and with this often hormonal imbalance and social restrictions.
Saying yes to baby-sitters allows for time out.
Looking after the general health of the mother is of paramount importance, seeking the help of family, friends and health professionals
Yvonne Casey - Dr Yvonne Casey Medically Qualified Natural Health Practitioner I obtained my medical degree from Queen’s University, ...
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