A Bundle of Happiness – Welcome to a New Life

Young parents are filled with joy and happiness at the thought of welcoming a new baby to their family.

Postpartum Depression and the Baby Blues

Although bringing a new life to this world is precious and beautiful, yet it has its own share of Challenges.

Postpartum depression is such a common and still important issue. After giving birth, the new mother goes through a lot of physical changes, emotional turmoil, and social pressures, PPD is quite common in women.

In simple terms, postpartum depression refers to a depression that occurs after the baby-birth.

This is not similar to ‘Baby Blues’ and is a group of symptoms after the delivery that disappear within 3-5 days.

If the condition of baby blues lasts for more than two weeks then it may be considered Postpartum Depression. 

Therefore, it is significant to know and recognize the difference between baby blues and PPD.

Approx 80% of mothers who suffer from postpartum experience baby blues as well.

In general, baby blues means the Short-term feelings of sadness or depression after childbirth and include the following symptoms:

• Changes in appetite – lack of eating /overeating
• Rapid mood swings – being happy at one moment to be sad at another
• Changes in sleep
• irritability
• Anxiety 
• Feeling restless
• Feel like crying over small things
• remembering your old life

If baby blues symptoms last more than two weeks, this is probably the case

Postpartum depression. PPD can be defined as a complex combination of emotional,  behavioral, and physical changes in females after giving birth to a child.

PPD usually starts within 4 weeks after delivery. To distinguish it from Baby blues it’s important to pay attention to its specific symptoms which include:

• Persistent feeling of sadness and emptiness
• Lack of interest in activities/things you enjoy previously
• Severe fatigue
• Decreased libido
• Rapid Mood swings
• Sleep problems
• Thoughts of harming yourself / others
• Feeling hopeless/worthless
• Serious anger issues
• Irrational fear/nervousness
• Unable to take care of self/child
• Feel difficulty in building a relationship with the child
• Feeling Inadequate

Although the exact causes of PPD are unknown, yet excessive hormonal changes, a few other risk factors include the history of depression, strained marriages or relationships,  severe PMS, Less social connections and networks.

PPD not only affects the mother but also hinders the well-being of the child, father, and other members of the family.

Thus, it is advisable to consult a doctor or IVF Expert when symptoms first appear. 

PPD is recognized by a certified physician who can prescribe several treatments including medication, therapy, or counseling.

During this time it would be beneficial If the patient can get engaged in self-care by doing moderate exercise every day, consuming nutritious food, taking the time to do what you love, and communicating with your inner self or circle of close friends and family.

One really doesn’t have to do it all alone because lots of support from friends, family, and doctors would be there. 

Also Read: Why and When Should IVF Be Considered?

When to Consult a Doctor for PPD?

• Symptoms of persistent depression for more than 2 weeks
• Unable to take care of the child
• Thoughts of harming oneself / others
• Difficulty doing and completing routine tasks

How to Deal with Postpartum Depression?

In addition, after consulting a doctor, who will either start the medication or therapy after proper consideration.

There are several other small things a person can do to reduce the effect of PPD.

This includes exercising whenever possible, getting adequate rest, eating nutritious food and supplements, making time for small pleasurable activities, participating in social events,

Communicating your needs and feelings and knowing and believing that you are doing your best under the given circumstances.

While this may sound scary and intimidating, in actuality PPD is treatable. All one has to do is 

be careful, recognize the symptoms early and consult a doctor in a timely manner.

Focus on beautiful memories, new life, and most importantly take proper care of yourself.

For further details, queries, or information contact us Eva IVF Centre anytime, we would be happy to help you.