Post Partum Depression

Stacie Leech

Health Per 4

Mrs. Vince

February 17, 2006

Post Partum Depression

Post partum depression is a mental disorder associated with the aftermath of pregnancy where in, a woman who has recently given birth feels a maternal instinct for her child but may be convinced that she does not posses the ability to be a good mother. This leads a mild to moderate depression, though it's often curable or with good preparation, avoidable all together.

Post partum depression is also commonly known as the "baby blues". This disability is caused by changes in the pregnancy hormones. It's most often present in new first time mothers. About one in 10 new mothers experience some degree of postpartum depression. It can be hereditarily passed through generations or a sporadic event for some women.

These complications usually occur within just days after delivery of the baby, and can continue to last up to even a year later. The symptoms commonly associated with post partum depression are: Sluggishness, Fatigue, Exhaustion, Feelings of hopelessness or depression, Disturbances with appetite and sleep, confusion, Uncontrollable crying, Lack of interest in the baby, Fear of harming the baby or one's self, and Mood swings (highs and lows). These symptoms can be experienced in mild to moderate extremes.

Post partum depression can be treated with medication or with psychotherapy. Or, particularly suggested for women with severe cases, a combination of the two. To avoid the disorder all together, it is suggested that one prepare for the baby and its needs as much as possible before the birth.

This disorder can effect the mother/child relationship and is taken seriously by the medical community. Though, with the right treatments, one can be restored to health from a post partum depression state.