1 in 4 Women will experiene a depressive episode postpartum
One in four women are said to experience a major depressive episode during their postpartum experience and researchers have identified several factors that contribute to this including, hormonal imbalances, psychosocial changes, and other cultural factors.
This isn't baby blues.
Baby Blues are a short-term mild experience within the first week after birth of weepiness or sadness or something similar. It is very common occurring amongst 50 to 80% of people.
Symptoms of postpartum depression range from mild to severe and may appear within a week or even up to one year later.
Postpartum depression may feel like
šµ Feeling sad, worthless, hopeless or guilty
šµ Excessive worrying
šµ Feeling like you're on the edge
šµ Very anxious
šµ Changes in appetite or not eating at all
šµ Difficulty sleeping, insomnia, or wanting to sleep all of the time
šµ Difficulty focusing
šµ Excessive crying or unable to find a reason for your tears
šµ Negative thoughts towards self and even thoughts toward self-harm or suicide
šµ Lack of interest in your baby or feeling anxious around your baby
šµ Thoughts of hurting your baby or feeling like you don't want your baby
This list is not exhaustive and does not capture everyone's experience as each one is unique, but you may find yourself experiencing some of these things on this list. Please reach out for help. Contact a therapist that you trust. I recommend someone who specializes and this time. Ashley Mariani is an excellent resource. You can find her @mindonlinetherapy.ca
Another great resource is placenta encapsulation. It helps bridge the gap between your birth and when your ovaries and thyroid come back on board with hormone production. On average it takes about 4 weeks for the thyroid and whenever your next cycle begins for the ovaries to start secreting progesterone. This major dip / deficit of progesterone has been linked to the cause of postpartum depression. š¤Maybe we're in to something!
