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Postpartum depression – All you need to know

Postpartum depression is a complex mix of emotional, social, chemical, behavioural, and physical changes that women go through after giving birth. This disorder usually begins within the first 4 weeks after delivery. Though you will feel a whole new kind of joy on seeing your new baby, you might also experience anxiety, fear, and sadness. You might find it difficult to fall asleep, cry now and then, or your mood might keep changing. For some women, postpartum depression might also last long and need medical counselling. Moreover, new fathers might suffer from this depression as well. So, to know more about it and seek help on time, read on

Symptoms and signs of baby blues include-

• Irritability and anger
• Anxiety
• Sadness
• Mood swings
• Excessive crying
• Feeling overwhelmed
• Trouble with sleeping
• Appetite problem
• Reduced concentration
• Difficulty in bonding with the baby
• Fatigue or lack of energy all the time
• Feeling of hopelessness
• Diminished ability to make decisions
• Reduced interest in activities that you used to enjoy earlier

Getting treatment is very important for both the new mother and the baby. In some cases, when the depression is serious or is prolonged, the mother might have suicidal thoughts or harbour negative thoughts towards the baby. And untreated depression can not only affect your health, but also have a negative impact on your quality of life. It can also affect the wellbeing of the baby who might be a premature baby or born with low birth weight.

Postpartum depression in fathers

Yes, you heard it right. Even new fathers can experience this depression.
• They might feel sad or tired, experience anxiety, feel lonely as their partner is on bed rest, and experience changes in their sleeping and eating patterns.
• Fathers who have a history of depression, are not very matured, or are experiencing relationship issues with their partner are the worst affected by this depression.
• This depression in fathers is also known as paternal postpartum depression. Just like when a new mother is hit by postpartum depression, it affects the wellbeing of the child, if a new father is affected by this depression, then also the baby suffers to a great extent.
• Giving birth to a new being is an overwhelming feeling and it demands a lot of effort, time, patience, and transition in your routine. Often, new parents are not prepared for such a drastic change and this huge responsibility leads to depression.

So, a piece of advice for new fathers - if you experience any symptoms of depression during your partner’s pregnancy or during the first year of childbirth, then you should make sure that you consult a doctor soon.

When to consult a doctor in case of postpartum depression?

If you feel that you are unable to bond with the baby or you are not acting your usual self, you should not feel embarrassed to admit it. If you feel even the slightest symptom of postpartum depression or baby blues, you should get in touch with your doctor. Given below are some circumstances when it is important for you to call your doctor-

1. If your depression doesn’t fade away after two weeks.
2. If the miserable feeling is getting worse.
3. If you are having thoughts about hurting yourself or the baby.
4. If you are finding it difficult to take care of the baby.
5. If you are having difficulty in completing everyday basic tasks.

Other people might not know that you are facing any kind of blues or depression if you don’t share your feelings with them. They may not be aware of the signs and symptoms associated with postpartum depression. Or even if they know that you are depressed, they might not understand the severity of the same. Which is why, if you suspect that you are suffering from postpartum depression, you should first speak with your partner or any other family member who is close to you. A delay in such situations might make your condition worse. Also, remember that it is not just about you, but your baby as well. So, act on it as soon as possible.

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on October 28, 2021