Although pregnant women are still expected to be in high spirits and totally happy after giving birth, we cannot omit nor forget the existence of postpartum depression. And, although the birth of a baby is related to joy and in many cases abundance, it can also cause new fears. /strong>andanxieties. It is precisely these emotions that could lead to the dreaded depression.
Most primiparas or first-time mothers usually feel postpartum blues after giving birth. This usually includes mood changes, anxiety, difficulty sleeping, and crying spells. This sensation usually begins two or three days after delivery, and can last up to two weeks.
However, there is a huge difference between this melancholy and postpartum depression, since the latter is much more serious. > and of longer duration. Sometimes, an extreme variant called postpartum psychosis can even develop.
What symptoms do you have?
The symptoms of postpartum depression can vary depending on the person, and can be mild or severe or occur all together or gradually. strong>.
It is important to differentiate, equally, the symptoms of postpartum blues and postpartum depression, and compare them objectively.
Symptoms of postpartum blues
We would like to remember that the symptoms of postpartum blues last from a few days to one or two weeks after birth.
- Mood changes.
- Sadness and/or irritability.
- Feeling of overwhelm.
- Episodes of crying.
- Reduction of concentration.
- Sleep and appetite problems.
Symptoms of postpartum depression
Although it may initially be confused with the baby blues, the symptoms of postpartum depression are more intense and last longer. Special care must be taken, as they can even interfere with carrying out daily tasks or taking care of the baby.
Although symptoms usually develop in the first weeks after childbirth, they can begin before (during pregnancy), or later (up to one year after birth).
- Severe mood swings and depressed mood.
- Excessive crying.
- Difficulty when relating to the baby.
- Social isolation.
- Eating disorders (loss of appetite or binge eating).
- Insomnia or hypersomnia.
- Fatigue or loss of energy.
- Reduction of interest in general.
- Irritability and attacks of anger.
- Fear of not being a good mother and hopelessness.
- Feelings of worthlessness, shame or guilt.
- Decreased concentration and decision-making ability.
- Anxiety and panic attacks.
- Recurring thoughts of death, suicide, self-harm, or harming the baby.
When should I go to a professional?
It is considered that you should consult your doctor once you experience any symptoms of postpartum blues, but it is especially important if these symptoms have the following characteristics:
- They do not disappear after two weeks.
- They make it difficult to carry out daily tasks or take care of the baby.
- They include thoughts of self-harm or injury to the baby.
Postpartum psychosis
Postpartum psychosis is a disorder that usually develops in the first week after childbirth, with more severe symptoms than depression:
- Confusion and disorientation.
- Obsessive thoughts about the baby.
- Hallucinations and delusions.
- Sleep disturbances.
- Excess energy.
- States of agitation and nervousness.
- Attempts to harm oneself or the baby.
Since this is a disorder that can cause dangerous thoughts or behaviors, it requires immediate treatment.
Postpartum depression in men
Although it is not as common, men who have been fathers can also experience postpartum depression.
Men with postpartum depression will develop the same symptoms that women suffer, but it has been found to be more common in young parents, with a medical history of depression, with relationship problems or financial difficulties.
Postpartum depression can have the same effect on relationships and children. The support and treatments will be similar and equally beneficial for both sexes.
Does postpartum depression make me weak?
In no case should we take postpartum depression as a character defect or a weakness. Sometimes it is simply a complication of childbirth that we have not considered. , and needs immediate treatment.
Remember that postpartum depression is a completely natural process that can happen to anyone.
Avoid taboos and go to your doctor to control the symptoms!
If you need help or advice to treat or diagnose postpartum depression, you can contact us .
