For most women, the birth of their baby is one of the most strenuous but also happiest days in their lives. So it is very difficult to understand why almost three-quarters of all women feel down shortly after giving birth.
Postpartum depression is one of the types of depression facing women. Postpartum depression is thought to be related to biochemical changes in the brain.If a woman feels that she is becoming depressed, she should seek help. Some of the signs of depression are sadness,inability to see, poor appetite,poor concentration, a feeling of being unable to cope, fatique, irritability and anxiety.
Some doctors ask women the following questions to find out if the woman is likely to develop postpartum depression or become depressed :
•Have a family history or a personal history of a depressive episode.
•Lacked experience in parenting a child or an adolescent (for example having no siblings to care for)
•Had an unstable or abusive family during childhood and adolescence
•Lacked positive support from husband or partner during and after pregnancy.
•Have a personal or a family history of depression
•Have had depression diagnosed during the pregnancy
•Are cut off from a near relative or friend who could care for the baby from time to time.
•possibly had negative experiences in their contact with health professionals during the pregnancy ( for example lacking information and communication.
Women are more likely to develop postpartum depression if they are socially and emotionally isolated or have had recent streessful life events. A woman suffering from depression needs help from a sympathetic doctor who is prepared to listen to her and give support and encouragement.
In more severe cases, psychiatric consultation may be needed.
