Symptoms of Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression is a serious condition thought to be brought about by a variety of causes, often including hormonal imbalances, in new mothers. It is estimated that around 15% of mothers will experience some form of depression after giving birth. In most cases, symptoms are mild and may not need aggressive treatment. There are other cases, however, that can be more dangerous, even debilitating; these require more active care. The most severe cases involve psychosis, requiring the most aggressive intervention to restore the new mother to good health.
There are many symptoms that may point to the presence of postpartum depression. It's a good idea for new mothers and their families and close friends to be aware of and alert to these symptoms. Should they occur, a competent health care professional should be consulted for advice and possible treatment.
Physical symptoms of postpartum depression can include inability to sleep, oversleeping or other unusual sleep patterns. Changes in appetite should be noted as well.
Mental and emotional symptoms that may signal developing postpartum depression are more extensive. These can include irritability, an apparent inability to show love toward the baby or other family members, anger toward the baby, anxiety attacks, exaggerated fear of harming the baby, and hyperventilation. Excessive sadness, difficulty concentrating, lethargy, mood swings, emotional numbness, and loss of interest in hobbies or other activities may also point to a developing condition.
In short, a new mother and those close to her should not ignore significant shifts in behavior or physical health after birth. If noticed, they should be confronted and acknowledged, and taken up with a health care professional. In many cases, the situation can be resolved simply with gentle steps such as improved nutrition, remedy of vitamin and mineral deficiencies (common in new mothers), easing stresses in the environment, rest, and treatment of any significant hormone imbalances that may be found.
Taking good care of any new mother is vital to helping her with her immeasurably important new task: caring for her newborn baby.
There are many symptoms that may point to the presence of postpartum depression. It's a good idea for new mothers and their families and close friends to be aware of and alert to these symptoms. Should they occur, a competent health care professional should be consulted for advice and possible treatment.
Physical symptoms of postpartum depression can include inability to sleep, oversleeping or other unusual sleep patterns. Changes in appetite should be noted as well.
Mental and emotional symptoms that may signal developing postpartum depression are more extensive. These can include irritability, an apparent inability to show love toward the baby or other family members, anger toward the baby, anxiety attacks, exaggerated fear of harming the baby, and hyperventilation. Excessive sadness, difficulty concentrating, lethargy, mood swings, emotional numbness, and loss of interest in hobbies or other activities may also point to a developing condition.
In short, a new mother and those close to her should not ignore significant shifts in behavior or physical health after birth. If noticed, they should be confronted and acknowledged, and taken up with a health care professional. In many cases, the situation can be resolved simply with gentle steps such as improved nutrition, remedy of vitamin and mineral deficiencies (common in new mothers), easing stresses in the environment, rest, and treatment of any significant hormone imbalances that may be found.
Taking good care of any new mother is vital to helping her with her immeasurably important new task: caring for her newborn baby.
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