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After Pregnancy

Postpartum Depression

You have probably heard the term postpartum depression and all the horror stories that go along with the term, however, you probably do not really know what the term means.

Postpartum depression is not the baby blues. Baby blues normally happen within the first few days after you have given birth and only last a few days up to one week. The new mom may notice sadness, mood swings, loss of appetite, crying, sleeping problems, restlessness, anxiety, irritability, and loneliness. The symptoms associated with the baby blues are not severe and do not need any type of treatment. Most of these feelings will go away without you doing anything at all.

Postpartum depression, on the other hand may happen anytime during the first year after giving birth.

  • Lack of energy
  • Sadness
  • Trouble concentrating
  • Anxiety
  • Feelings of guilt
  • Worthlessness

The difference between the baby blues and postpartum depression is that in the later it can affect the woman's overall health and well-being. If you are still feeling these feeling after one week from having the baby, you should contact your doctor.

A few things you can do may help with depression such as:

  • Rest as much as possible learn to take naps when the baby naps
  • Learn to ask for help
  • Do not try to be super “Mom” – do what you can and leave the rest for another day
  • Talk to family and friends about your feelings
  • Spend time alone with your partner – find a sitter for a couple of hours
  • Ask your partner to take care of the baby one night a week so you can sleep
  • Join a support group with new mothers
  • Talk with other mothers and learn how they coped with their first baby
  • Do not make any major life changing decisions during your pregnancy or shortly after.
  • Do not stay in bed all the time
  • Get dressed, put on your makeup and look your best
  • Go for a walk
  • Go shopping

Most of the time postpartum depression will be totally gone in about one year. However, if you cannot cope with all of the stress that you are feeling and cope with taking care of your newborn talk with your health care provider, he should be able to give you information regarding counselors that can speak with you. The most important thing to remember is that you should not be ashamed to talk with someone about your feelings and work through the depression. Many women go through depression after their baby is born for a variety of reasons. Do not allow the depression to hinder you and stop you from being the woman you want to be.