Postpartum Depression: Causes, Symptoms, Possible Solutions

Postpartum depression is not something we speak enough of in our society, most especially in this part of the world. In the days before now, the Yoruba’s would describe the conditions as “Abisiwin”. This literally describes a woman who is not in her right mental state. Many of them even went as far as attributing it to spiritual attacks.

A woman embarks on a  journey of 9 months to bring another human into the world. The baby comes and many congratulate her, oblivious of the real story behind her journey.

The child is here, and the mother begins to feel a rush of emotions, all at once. Suddenly, the child, whom she so craved to cradle in her arms, becomes the last sight she wants a glimpse at. No, it’s not her fault, neither is it a form of weakness or a character flaw.

About 4 in 5 new mothers (80 percent) experienced baby blues usually within the first 2 to 3 days but sometimes lasting up to 2 weeks. The feelings commonly include mood swings, crying spells, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping.

Symptoms of postpartum panic attacks include:

• Shortness of breath

• Tightening of the chest

• Heart palpitations

• Consistent and excessive worry/fear

Types of PPD

• Postpartum Anxiety

• Postpartum Blues

• Postpartum panic disorder

• Postpartum Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

• Postpartum Psychosis

Causes of PPD

If you experience postpartum depression or PDD after birth, it is not because you have done anything wrong.

Experts believe that this phenomenon is different for everyone. Doctors have said that genetic and environmental factors are some of the contributing factors.

Some things that can raise the chances of postpartum depression include:

• A history of depression prior to becoming pregnant, or during pregnancy

• Age at the time of pregnancy (the younger you are, the higher the chances)

• Children (the more you have, the more likely you are to be depressed in later pregnancy)

• Family history of mood disorders

• Going through an extremely stressful event, like a job loss or health crisis

• Having a child with special needs or health problems

• Having twins or triplets

• Having a history of depression or premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

• Substance use disorder

• Birthing a baby with special needs

• Unwanted pregnancy

• Lack of support

Possible Solutions

• Develop Support

• Exercises

• Seek professional help

In conclusion, Postpartum depression is a serious mental condition that requires the help of professionals. Partners need to understand the importance of providing emotional support for their wives.

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