Postpartum (Postnatal) Depression
While pregnancy and the postpartum period are generally considered a special and pleasant time in society, it is also a risky period for the development of mental disorders. Depression is approximately twice as common in women as in men, and the postpartum period is a risky time for the onset and exacerbation of psychiatric disorders. Women are at significantly increased risk for mental illness, especially during the first year after birth.
Mental Disorders in the Postpartum Period
Mental disorders in the postpartum period fall into three main groups:
Baby Blues (Maternity Blues): A common problem encountered in 50-80% of new mothers. It usually appears between the 3rd and 5th days after delivery. Symptoms include crying, sleep disturbance, irritability, anxiety, rapid mood changes, difficulty concentrating, and feelings of loss and grief. Medication is not needed. Symptoms generally improve within 2 weeks.
Postpartum Psychosis: The most severe psychiatric condition in the postpartum period. It begins within 2-3 weeks after delivery and lasts about 2-3 months. It is a psychiatric emergency. The patient should be hospitalized for evaluation and treatment. Care must be taken to prevent harm to the patient and baby.
Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression is expected to begin within the first 4 weeks after delivery. However, it should not be forgotten that it can occur at any time within the first year. In postpartum depression, the mother-infant bond is seriously disrupted.
Many women feel guilty for having depressive feelings during a time when they believe they should be happy, causing them to hide their symptoms, which can lead to the condition being overlooked.
Symptoms
- •Feeling worthless
- •Constant worry and anxiety
- •Feelings of guilt
- •Uncontrollable crying
- •Slowed movement and speech
- •Agitation
- •Sleep disturbances
- •Feelings of hopelessness and inadequacy
- •Emotional instability
- •Thoughts of death and suicide
Risk Factors
- •History of previous depression
- •Family history of depression
- •Stressful life events
- •Negative marital relationships
- •Lack of social support
- •Fussy baby
- •Not breastfeeding
- •Thyroid disorders
Treatment
The first step in postpartum depression treatment begins with a detailed evaluation and ruling out organic causes. Depending on the severity of the illness, psychotherapy, medication, and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be utilized. In psychotherapy, efforts are made to resolve conflicts by helping the woman understand and express her emotions.
Building and supporting the mother's self-confidence is very important in postpartum depression treatment. The mother needs to rest and have support from family members. The baby should not be separated from the mother. Early diagnosis and treatment prevent the illness from becoming chronic or lasting longer.