Postpartum depression: symptoms and prevention. Postpartum depression: symptoms, consequences, causes, treatment How to understand that postpartum depression has begun

Pregnancy is over and you have become a mother. The congratulations of your relatives have already died down, and the flowers with which the happy father came to pick you up at the maternity hospital have long since withered. The time has come for harsh everyday life, filled until the last minute with children's crying and household chores - washing, cleaning, cooking and ironing.

You spin like a squirrel in a wheel all day long, but still don’t get anything done. You have no strength, everything is falling out of your hands, no one is trying to understand you, and you have almost no patience left. What's the matter? It sounds like you are experiencing postpartum depression. It is believed that about 10% of young mothers suffer from its manifestations.

However, do not confuse postpartum depression with postpartum blues. The second begins a few days after the birth of the child. At the same time, the woman often wants to cry, she worries about herself and the baby, becomes tense, irritable, and feels tired. There is a version that this condition is caused by significant changes in the balance of hormones. As a rule, after a couple of days there is no trace of the postpartum blues.

When does postpartum depression begin and how long does it last?

Postpartum depression is a more serious phenomenon. While all the other young mothers have wiped away their tears and are enjoying motherhood, a woman suffering from this disease becomes increasingly unhappy and restless. It is possible that depression began during pregnancy, and after childbirth it only worsened.

But it also happens differently. A woman becomes ill several weeks or even months after the birth of her child. At first she gets joy from caring for a newborn, but then depression gives way to joy. Life for a young mother loses all meaning.

If we talk about how long postpartum depression lasts, then everything depends on the severity of its manifestations. Thus, mild depression can last up to 6 months. If postnatal depression is accompanied by attacks of psychosis, then this condition can haunt a woman for up to a year or more. It should be noted that an important role in the duration of depression after childbirth is played by the general atmosphere in the family, the arrangement of life, the presence or absence of support from loved ones, financial situation, as well as the character of the woman, since often the development of the disease is a consequence of reluctance to seek help.

Symptoms of postpartum depression

Before moving on to listing the main symptoms of postpartum depression, it should be noted that they do not always appear in combination. However, if you notice at least 4 of the signs described below, this is a reason to seriously think about it.

You may burst into tears easily for no apparent reason;
The cry of a newborn makes you furious. You are ready to do anything to make this tiny tyrant finally shut up;
You are haunted by the feeling that all your relatives are watching your every step and are constantly waiting for you to stumble so that they can bother you again with their moralizing;
Postpartum depression is characterized by a complete lack of joy from caring for the baby. And although you regularly follow all the doctor’s recommendations, the child you have been carrying under your heart for 9 months has suddenly become a complete stranger to you. No one is trying to understand you and take on at least part of your mother’s troubles;
Afraid of breaking down at any moment, you try to keep a tight rein on yourself. However, the invisible spring inside is compressed more and more every day;
Intimacy makes you feel deeply disgusted;
The reflection in the mirror no longer pleases you. Throughout your pregnancy, you fell asleep with the thought that after giving birth you would again become slim and graceful, but reality turned out to be too cruel to you. Fashionable skinny jeans are still lying on the far shelf, and you are wearing the same wide robes that you wore in the sixth month. Your own appearance annoys you.

Why you need to fight postpartum depression

The fact is that postpartum depression brings suffering not only to you, but also to the baby. And although the child is still very small, he also understands that he is a stranger to you. It turns out that emotional contact, so important at this tender age, is absent between you. Postnatal depression in the mother has been shown to negatively affect the development of the newborn.

In addition, if there is no help from loved ones, and you have no internal reserves left to fight depression after childbirth, you should not expect the problem to “resolve” on its own. On the contrary, your condition will only get worse every day. Are you no longer surprised that mothers and grandmothers talked about the first year after childbirth as if it were a nightmare? So, your nightmare can last from several weeks to several years. And the longer you don’t wake up, the more it will affect all areas of your family’s life.

Treatment of postpartum depression

Treatment of postnatal depression requires a mandatory consultation with a psychologist and drug therapy. As a rule, for postpartum depression, women are prescribed antidepressant medications. Do not be afraid to take medications - taking new generation antidepressants is not a reason to stop breastfeeding, since these drugs do not have a negative impact on the baby’s well-being. However, you should not self-medicate - any pills can only be taken as directed by a specialist.

It is worth noting that treatment of postpartum depression involves adherence to the principles of a healthy diet, moderate physical activity, and proper rest. In addition to this, the woman must realize that her behavior was wrong and certainly seek help from her family.

The role of loved ones in getting rid of postpartum depression

Many peoples had a very useful tradition - after giving birth, the closest relatives came to the young mother and took over all household chores, freeing the woman from them. Alas, this wonderful custom is a thing of the past. But this does not mean that you cannot ask your mother, mother-in-law or sister for help. Moreover, it is better to do this in advance, and not at the moment when postpartum depression has already brought you to the limit.

Explain how you feel. It only seems to you that everything is clear and there is nothing to talk about here. In reality, everything looks a little different. Relatives can be advised to refrain from phrases like “It’s time to pull yourself together and not become limp” or “No one deserves such an attitude from her.” Understand that in a state of postpartum depression, a young mother most needs love, comfort and real help.

Invite your husband to organize a kind of “mom’s day off” once a week. Plan in advance what you want to do on this day - go to a beauty salon, relax in the sauna, go to the pool, go to visit your best friend. The main thing is to leave the house and take your mind off the oppressive environment.

Text: Inga Stativka

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The joy of motherhood is not always fully felt by women. This joy is overshadowed by postpartum depression. This disease is often underestimated and not taken seriously enough by women in labor and their relatives, but in vain. Knowing the signs and treatment methods can help you avoid or quickly get rid of depression after childbirth.

What is postpartum depression

The wonderful, joyful time after the birth of a baby is not like that for everyone. And the reason for this is postpartum depression of the new mother, which, according to statistics, occurs in 12%.

Postpartum depression occurs in 12% of women who give birth

Postpartum depression is a disease of the nervous system, an altered “chemistry” of the brain, in which a woman cannot experience joy, is constantly in a depressed mood, sees only the negative in everything, and loses interest in any activity. The disease can be expressed in increased concern for the child or in the absence of maternal feelings and indifference.

What are the causes of postpartum depression?

Depression after childbirth occurs due to physiological, psycho-emotional changes in the body.

The causes of depression after the birth of a child are:

unstable hormonal levels;
changes of a physiological nature are expressed in a slowdown in metabolism, changes in the functioning of the thyroid gland after the birth of a baby and a constant feeling of fatigue;
overload with household chores, which results in a lack of free time;
financial difficulties, forced saving of money;
for first-time women - a discrepancy between understanding and seeing oneself in the new social role of a parent;
an unconscious feeling of fear of changes in appearance, for example, weight gain, the appearance of stretch marks on the skin;
constant lack of sleep;
Lack of breast milk in some cases can also become a provoking factor. After all, breastfeeding is very important for the health and development of the baby’s immunity, which makes the mother worry;
constant disappointment from the discrepancy between reality and expectations. For example, with a lack of help and attention from a partner, with a long rehabilitation of the body after a difficult birth;
fear of not living up to the title of “mother.” A woman holds a certain image of a good mother in her head, but after giving birth her behavior does not fit into the invented image, which causes some complexes;
increased responsibility for the newborn, husband and older children.

Provoking factors are a woman’s low standard of living and hereditary predisposition. In women giving birth, whose mothers experienced depression after childbirth, the disease is more common. The woman tries to maintain her usual way of life with everyday activities, but the child takes a lot of effort, and everything else comes with great effort. The spouse takes all efforts for granted. Therefore, it is important not to remain silent: ask for help somewhere, voice your feelings and desires.

How does postpartum depression form?

Postpartum depression has not yet been sufficiently studied by specialists, so it is often not taken seriously, but it is a disease that sometimes requires drug treatment.

A certain area of the brain regulates the unity of the nervous and hormonal systems, and it is also activated under the influence of stress. While carrying a child, her reactions are weakened so that the stressful state does not harm the physiological development of the fetus. In some women, the functioning of this area of the brain malfunctions, provoking factors are added, and as a result, the mechanism for the development of postpartum depression is triggered. Hormonal surges after childbirth, in particular, a decrease in serotonin, a lack of vitamin D, and exhaustion of the body, play an important role in the occurrence of depressive disorders.

Symptoms of postpartum depression

A change in the internal state of a young mother can be easily recognized by the signs of postpartum depression.

Postpartum depression is a violation of the psycho-emotional calm of a woman, manifested in the following symptoms:

unpredictable, causeless attacks of hysterics and anger that cannot be controlled internally;
depressed mood, tearfulness, loss of the ability to rejoice;
poor sleep, difficulty falling asleep, for example, due to worry about the child;
expectation of misfortune, something bad, excessive anxiety;
lack of interest and desire to do anything, including engaging in favorite hobbies or meeting friends;
bouts of overeating or lack of appetite;
unnatural indifference or guardianship of the child;
thoughts of suicide;
constant feeling of guilt for one’s behavior.

Every woman experiences depressive disorder differently, but the main symptoms, or at least some of them, are common to all. The severity of signs of depression depends on the number of causes that caused it, the attention of parents and spouse, as well as the woman herself, to her condition.

Duration and treatment of postpartum depression

Postpartum depression does not always occur immediately after childbirth; it can appear within a year. It lasts differently for everyone. The average time is two to three months with timely treatment. In advanced cases, a sluggish illness can last up to a year or two years.

According to statistics, women are more likely to experience depression between three and eight months after childbirth.

It is important to understand that postpartum depression is an illness that needs to be treated. In our society, unfortunately, the majority of people consider depression to be something insignificant, like being spoiled. Or there is an opinion that this condition will pass over time. But depression is scary because of its complications - suicide attempts. There are known cases in Russia when mothers and their babies were thrown out of the window. But this could have been prevented by recognizing and starting treatment of the disease in time.

Contact a psychiatrist who will prescribe therapy with medications if necessary.
Calmly accept help from loved ones: husband, parents. There is nothing wrong with this; it does not at all mean a woman’s failure as a mother.
Love and accept yourself in any form. If you are overweight, you need to understand that this is temporary, you won’t be able to lose weight quickly anyway. You need to concentrate on inner feelings, love for your child.
Communicate with women who have experienced a similar condition, talk about their feelings and fears. Communication can be both live and virtual, for example, on forums.
It is sometimes necessary to arrange short periods of rest with a change of environment. Visiting a cafe, shopping, or just a solitary walk will help you take your mind off everyday worries and negative thoughts, and a father or grandmother can sit with the child.
Spend less time on household chores and cooking. Of course, you want to eat tasty and varied food, just like before pregnancy, but mental health is more important. You can ask your spouse to replace himself in the kitchen or prepare simpler dishes.
Try to improve the sexual side of family life, explain to your partner that the difficulties of postpartum recovery are temporary. This is not a woman’s whim, but a physiological need, so as not to cause even greater harm to the body.
Develop a napping habit. Even a short nap during the day will help you calm down, restore strength and energy.
Eat more foods rich in calcium and vitamin C. A lack of these substances contributes to depressive disorders. It would be useful to take vitamin supplements.

Treatment of postpartum depression is carried out with antidepressants or hormonal drugs

Treatment for postpartum depression is prescribed by a doctor. This may be taking medications: antidepressants or hormonal drugs. The modern pharmaceutical industry offers antidepressants that are approved for breastfeeding. They raise the level of the joy hormone in the body, so they do not in any way affect the internal organs.

Non-drug treatment of the disease includes:

consultations with a psychotherapist;
Hypnotherapy allows you to uncover psychological problems that provoke postnatal depression, even if they come from the past. Hypnosis helps get rid of constant feelings of guilt, groundless fears, and increase self-esteem;
NLP, which is aimed at setting specific life goals and achieving them. As a result of neurolinguistic programming, a woman learns new behavior and positive attitudes are formed;
massage sessions help, together with the muscles, to “relax” thinking and get rid of bad thoughts;
acupuncture relieves anxiety and calms;
Electrosleep helps with chronic lack of sleep.

Each case of depression has its own specifics, so treatment methods are used in different combinations.

It is very important for a woman’s speedy recovery to involve loved ones and relatives in helping. The psychologist should explain how dangerous postpartum depression is, how to create an atmosphere of love and mutual support at home, and eliminate conflicts and quarrels from the life of a woman in labor.

In an atmosphere of understanding and attention, a woman who has given birth quickly regains interest in life, returns to her favorite activities and, as a result, recovers.

Disease prevention

The most reliable way to get rid of the disease is its timely prevention. Nowadays, a lot of information is available in magazines and the Internet, which needs to be studied in order to know about all the nuances of the manifestation of the disease.

During pregnancy, you can attend childbirth preparation courses, which are usually held in antenatal clinics. These classes will tell you about all the changes in women after childbirth, so they won’t come as an unpleasant surprise.

At specialized courses, future fathers and mothers will be told in detail how childbirth takes place and how to care for the baby.

It is necessary to discuss with your spouse in advance the distribution of activities, household chores, and what kind of assistance he will provide after childbirth. A woman cannot immediately take on all responsibilities in order to avoid overexertion and resentment for misunderstanding.

To prevent postpartum depression, it is useful for a pregnant woman to talk with her mother about how her birth went.

Already during pregnancy, a woman prepares for the future role of a mother on a psychological level, as well as for all the difficulties that lie ahead during this period. After giving birth, many women experience fear of breastfeeding and caring for the baby. There may also be fear for the health of the newborn. However, very soon all fears are left behind, the woman calms down and gradually enters into the role of a mother. Unfortunately, this period does not end well for everyone. Some women develop a painful state of anxiety, unfounded by objective reasons. In medicine, this kind of change is called depression. In this article we will talk in more detail about this condition, the main causes and ways to prevent it.

What is postpartum depression?

This is a rather serious mental illness that develops exclusively in the postpartum period and is characterized by depressed mood and loss of former interests. This pathological condition most often occurs in the first or second week after the baby is born.

This type of depression has a direct connection with social, chemical, and psychological changes in a woman’s life. Fortunately, this pathology is highly treatable.

The chemical changes observed in the body are explained by fluctuations in hormone levels after childbirth. However, experts have still not been able to find scientific evidence of the connection between hormones and depression itself. It is known that during pregnancy the level increases 10 times. After the baby is born, these indicators drop sharply, and after another three days they return to the level they were before pregnancy.

Along with hormonal changes, social and psychological transformations also influence the onset of depression.

Main reasons

It is not only possible, but also necessary to combat this condition. It’s even better to prevent signs of postpartum depression and prevent the development of serious mental disorders. Not all women who have given birth are susceptible to this condition: some were able to survive it very quickly and now, together with their child, enjoy every new day, while others experience daily bouts of irritation and anger, as a result it even comes to divorce. Why is this happening? To prevent the development of depression, it is important to know its causes and try, if possible, to avoid them. Provoking factors:

Unwanted or difficult pregnancy.
Problems with breastfeeding.
Conflicts with the child’s father (infidelity, quarrels, scandals, separation).
A disordered nervous system even before the baby is born.
Excessive physical activity.
Financial problems.
Lack of basic outside help.
Unjustified expectations.

Of course, not all reasons depend on the woman. They are often dictated by social and living conditions. However, the emotional state of a young mother directly depends on her thoughts and daily mood, on her attitude towards life and others. That is why psychologists strongly recommend reducing all negative emotions to a minimum.

Symptoms

How does postpartum depression manifest? How do you understand that you have this particular problem and not another disease? After all, this may be the most common fatigue from accumulated tasks, which often goes away on its own. Experts identify a number of signs indicating postpartum depression. If they appear, you should immediately consult a doctor. Only a specialist can confirm the presence of a problem such as postpartum depression.

Symptom No. 1. A woman’s regular complaints of suffering due to loneliness and excessive fatigue. In addition, mommy may experience tearfulness, sudden mood swings, and uncontrollable outbursts of anger. Already now, family and friends should sound the alarm, because this is how postpartum depression begins.
Symptom No. 2 regarding the condition and health of the newborn. Very often a woman experiences this as a result of the most minor failure. Suicidal thoughts and a gloomy vision of the future may also appear.
Symptom No. 3. Provoking conflict situations, daily tantrums, grumpiness. Relatives and friends, as a rule, have no idea about the main reasons for this behavior of a young mother. However, it is precisely this that indicates that postpartum depression is occurring.
Symptom No. 4. A feeling of panic and anxiety, accompanied by a strong heartbeat, loss of appetite, regular headaches, insomnia. Sometimes a woman has an irresistible desire to commit actions that are senseless, in the opinion of others. Simple conversations with a young mother most often end in serious scandals.

These are the symptoms that accompany depression after childbirth. If you find one or two of the above signs, there is no reason to worry, as it may be simple fatigue. If this figure goes off scale, it’s time to sound the alarm and immediately seek help from specialists.

Why is it so important to recognize a problem in a timely manner? The thing is that prolonged depression after childbirth, which in some cases can last for months, without the intervention of doctors, often ends in psychosis. This condition is characterized by confusion, delusions, hallucinations, and complete inadequacy. Of course, here we can already talk about limiting the mother’s access to the baby.

What factors increase the likelihood of developing the disease?

There are several of them, and they all have a different nature:

Age. The earlier a woman becomes pregnant, the higher the risk.
Loneliness.
Lack of psychological support from family and friends.
Ambiguous perception of pregnancy.
Children. The more children you have, the higher your chance of developing depression with each subsequent pregnancy.

Types of postpartum depression

Experts identify three types of disorders of this nature, which develop exclusively after the birth of a child:

Postpartum blues. Every woman is familiar with this condition; it is a normal reaction of the body to the changes that have occurred. A young mother's mood can change dramatically. Only now she feels the happiest in the world, and after a few minutes she begins to cry. The woman becomes irritable, intolerant, and agitated. According to experts, postpartum blues can last from several hours to a couple of weeks. This condition does not require specialized treatment, as it most often goes away on its own.
Postpartum depression. Symptoms characterizing this condition most often appear a few days after the baby is born. They are similar to the signs of postpartum blues (sadness, despair, irritability, anxiety), but they manifest themselves to a greater extent. During this period, a woman, as a rule, cannot perform the daily duties assigned to her. When this happens, you should immediately seek help from a psychologist. Despite the complexity of this illness, depression after childbirth is highly treatable. Moreover, modern medicine offers a variety of solutions to this problem, so that every woman can choose the most suitable option for herself.
Postpartum psychosis is the most serious mental illness diagnosed in new mothers. The disease appears unexpectedly and develops rapidly (during the first three months after birth). Initially, the woman loses her usual ability to distinguish the real world from the imagined world, and audio hallucinations arise. Other symptoms include insomnia, constant agitation, and anger at the world around us. When primary symptoms appear, it is extremely important to seek help from a qualified doctor. In some cases, hospitalization is even required, as there is a risk of harm not only to oneself, but also to the newborn.

When does postpartum depression begin and how long does it last?

Postpartum depression is considered a more serious problem than the usual blues. If young mothers who have overcome the blues have already managed to cope with all the difficulties and experience the joy of caring for their baby, then women with postpartum depression feel more and more unhappy and exhausted every day.

Sometimes a woman, even before the baby is born, struggles with a depressive state, and childbirth only aggravates the previously existing problem.

In some cases, symptoms of this mental illness appear months after the baby is born. Initially, the young mother experiences exclusively positive emotions and pleasure from communicating with the child, but after a certain period of time all these troubles begin to exhaust, and the woman herself feels unhappy and depressed.

How long does postpartum depression last? This depends not only on the mother herself, but also on her environment. Very often, a woman is in no hurry to seek qualified help from a psychologist, believing that the problem will solve itself. Sometimes representatives of the fair sex are simply afraid to seek support due to complete disappointment in themselves and constant concern for the health of the child.

Of course, this attitude only makes the situation worse. You shouldn't be embarrassed to ask for help. First of all, psychologists recommend talking to loved ones and talking about all your worries. If they agree to take on some of the housework, mom will have time to rest and even consult with specialists.

What should the treatment be?

How to get rid of postpartum depression? This is the question most often asked by relatives and friends of women who have had to face this problem. First of all, you should seek qualified help. Trying to help a young mother on your own is not recommended, as in some cases it requires taking medications and consulting a psychologist. Self-medication can only aggravate the current situation, which will lead to the development of postpartum psychosis.

Depending on the type and complexity, depression is treated either on an outpatient basis or in an inpatient setting. The decision on the latter option is made solely on the basis of identifying the risk of suicidal tendencies and the severity of the general condition. Modern medicine offers several treatment methods:

As a rule, the use of the above drugs implies a complete refusal to breastfeed, since these drugs can harm the baby. It is important to note that any medications should be taken only after consulting a doctor. When postpartum depression passes, the drugs are gradually discontinued and the woman returns to her normal life.

What should my husband do?

Psychologists recommend that family and friends help young mothers who are faced with a problem such as postpartum depression. The causes of this disease, as is known, often lie in lack of rest. A husband can help his wife by taking on a number of responsibilities around the house and meeting the physical needs of the newborn. It is no secret that this kind of disorder is less often diagnosed in those couples where husbands initially took an active part in common family affairs.

Invaluable support for a woman is also the fact that her husband is ready to listen to all her experiences and concerns and encourage her. It is recommended to avoid sharp criticism and condemnation.

Complications

Unpleasant consequences include the following:

Prolonged depression (more than one year).
Suicide attempts.

In addition to medical complications, quite severe social consequences are possible. First of all, this is the breakdown of the family. Indeed, constant changes in a woman’s mood, dissatisfaction with her own life, increased irritability - all these factors often push both spouses to divorce. In addition, some women, in a fit of despair, decide to abandon the child. As a rule, this kind of situation is common among single mothers.

Prevention

How to avoid postpartum depression? The exact causes of this condition still remain unexplored. That is why experts cannot offer effective measures to prevent it.

However, psychologists name a number of activities that, to one degree or another, help reduce the likelihood of depression:

Conclusion

In this article, we explained what postpartum depression is in women. The symptoms and causes of this condition may vary in each case. It is important to remember that depression is, first of all, a rather serious illness. It is not the young mother’s fault that she has to suffer so much. That is why a woman cannot simply pull herself together and cope with the problem. After all, no person can overcome the flu, diabetes or a heart attack by force of will.

On the other hand, the attention of her husband and family helps a woman feel truly loved. It will be much easier for her to find free time for relaxation or hobbies. This kind of care contributes to the rapid recovery of the young mother and her return to the family.

Postpartum depression, as statistics indicate, is a condition that affects approximately 5-7 women out of 10 after childbirth. Postpartum depression, the symptoms of which are observed in women of the main group of reproductive age, consists of increased sensitivity, which, in turn, manifests itself in a whole “bouquet” of corresponding manifestations. Our article today is about the features of postpartum depression and how to deal with it.

general description

Already by the end of pregnancy, and even on the eve of childbirth, the expectant mother becomes passive, loses control over the entire situation accompanying her condition, and encounters unusual sensations, which, unfortunately, are more comparable to anxiety. Such harbingers of postpartum depression worsen by the time the child is born, and the feeling of anxiety is further reinforced by the fact that, with all her desire, the new mother is simply unable, given her condition, to correspond to the “picture” with which the birth of a long-awaited baby is usually identified.

Surely the reader now has an approximate image of such a “picture”: a mother glowing with joy, overflowing with tenderness, a rosy-cheeked, smiling strong man, an equally happy husband nearby, etc. All this can be supplemented endlessly, but the birth of a baby, exactly the opposite, not only destroys such a picture, but seriously corrects it. This is not surprising, because from this moment the life of the family changes completely, and even with all the readiness for the appearance of a child in it, some things will have to be overcome, making serious efforts for this. And although our article, in general, is aimed at women, which is determined by their experience of postpartum depression in direct connection with this process, it also concerns men. And the point here is not only in general recommendations, which you can also learn for yourself further, but also in the fact that the state of postpartum depression specifically for men is no less relevant.

So, what is postpartum depression in women? In fact, despite the difference in attitude towards it, it is a fairly serious disease, which, in turn, can become the basis for even more serious conditions. It is important to note that postpartum depression is not just the “blueness” that occurs during the first few weeks after the birth of a child. What is characteristic of this state of “blues” is that during it one can experience characteristic conditions (anxiety, tearfulness, sleep and appetite disorders, mood swings, etc.), but at the same time a feeling of happiness from the new state and from the birth of a child in particular is present. The blues go away after a few weeks; moreover, it does not require any treatment. Another thing is postpartum depression.

Postpartum depression usually develops during the first few months after the birth of a child, although it can manifest itself at any time during the first year after this event. Symptoms of postpartum depression appear not only much longer (here the count goes on for months, and in more severe forms for years), but also in greater intensity, in violation of the ability to perform any actions. This condition is not a fad or a close analogue of the blues, but a mental disorder whose manifestations are similar to other types of depression.

Gradually, the main manifestations of this type of depression fade away, but this only indicates a tendency to transform it into a chronic form of its course. The reason for this is the attitude towards postpartum depression on the part of the mother herself and the people around her, which in particular concerns the non-recognition of this disease as such and, accordingly, the refusal of the need for its treatment. Thus, postpartum depression is masked in a unique way, because an almost indisputable fact is the already noted “picture” of the happy state in which a woman should be due to the birth of a child, which she has to support by hook or by crook. At the same time, about 20% of women remain in a primary depressive state even a year after childbirth.

It should be noted that in some cases, postpartum depression also occurs against the background of a miscarriage or against the background of the birth of a stillborn fetus in a woman.

The peculiarity of postpartum depression also lies in the fact that the birth of a child causes the mother to identify with her own parents and attempts to find out how they once coped with their functions after her birth. Based on this analysis, motherhood becomes the cause that results in reactivation (that is, reactivation) of traumas and conflicts that were not sufficiently worked through in childhood and adolescence.

Thus, to summarize, according to certain data, about 10-15% of mothers are faced with a typical form of a depressive episode, and only in 3% is this diagnosis established and its subsequent treatment. In fact, the depressive state, which plays a significant role in the life of the mother, in terms of frequency of occurrence corresponds to even higher rates, if we talk about specific numbers.

Moreover, as one might assume, the role of this disorder directly affects the child during the early period of his life. In part, depending on the degree and characteristics of the manifestation of postpartum depression in the mother, this condition can also act as a determining factor in the future future of the child, in particular this applies to various forms of disorders. In addition, due to postpartum depression, the mother feels that she is simply unable to cope with her child, and the overall harmony necessary for their successful interaction in the future is disrupted.

In addition to the listed features, the general signs of postpartum depression boil down to the fact that the mother categorically refuses to seek help. The basis for this is the emergence of a deep feeling of guilt, which, in turn, arises due to the difficulties associated with caring for a child. As a result, the relationship between mother and child is in a vicious circle, which later becomes the reason why depression becomes chronic. Against this background, the unfavorable influence that ultimately accompanies the baby’s development intensifies. Needless to say, the spouse, other family members, and simply close people who cannot always accept and understand such an attitude towards them also receive their share of this influence.

Postpartum depression: causes

If we generally consider the reasons for the development of postpartum depression in women, then a generalization can determine the close connection of a woman’s condition with those changes in her life that occur not only at the psychological level, but also at the social, physical and chemical level. All these aspects inevitably become relevant after the birth of the baby. Chemical changes are in particular based on a sharp change in hormonal levels that develops immediately after childbirth.

It should be noted, however, that scientists have not yet given a clear explanation of the connection between postpartum depression and hormone levels. This, however, is not at all a reason to discount this factor - the influence of hormones as a whole on the body and the development of such conditions is undeniable. A precisely known fact is information regarding the amount of hormones. Thus, during pregnancy, the level of progesterone and estrogen increases 10 times, while after childbirth there is a rapid decrease in these indicators. Imagine what large-scale changes occur in the body with such indicators, if it is also known for sure that just three days after the birth of the child, hormones in the specified volume change to the levels at which they were before pregnancy!

Again, in combination with hormonal changes, one cannot exclude psychological and social changes that are relevant in general at the birth of a child and corresponding changes in the life of his parents and mother in particular. All this also determines serious risks for the development of postpartum depression.

There are also a number of reasons that also contribute to the development of postpartum depression, we will highlight them separately:

Heredity. In this case, heredity refers to the response characteristics adopted by new mothers from their own parents, which arise in response to current stressful situations. By the way, stress after the birth of a child occurs quite often, regardless of the scale of the occasion accompanying it, and this is not to mention the fact that childbirth itself is stressful for a woman, as is not obvious.
Hormonal changes during the postpartum period associated with a sharp decrease in the level of female hormones (already discussed above). In addition, the physical reasons for which hormonal changes act are also a sharp drop in the production of thyroid hormones, against the background of which there is a feeling of “losing oneself” and severe fatigue, which, in turn, leads to depression. To top it off, it remains to add changes at the metabolic level, changes in blood volume and pressure after childbirth, which also affects the mother’s state of mind.
Fear of not meeting the expectations of others and one’s own expectations regarding the existing image of a “super-mom”, who, at the same time, manages to do everything everywhere, being in the appropriate mood and in an unlimited state of happiness. In reality, it is quite difficult to comply with all this, which in turn gives rise to a feeling of one’s own helplessness and “spinelessness”, which does not allow one to achieve this. This, as is clear, causes the subsequent development of depression in the mother.
Lack of sufficient time required for moral and physical recovery after the exhaustion accompanying childbirth. Here it is also necessary to add a combination of household chores that need to be performed, with pain arising as a result of contractions of the uterus, as well as with pain accompanying the healing of sutures in the perineal area or the healing of a scar in the abdomen (as is clear, the area of such pain depends on the method delivery).
Formation of lactation. In particular, we are talking here about the problems accompanying this process, as such the need to express milk is considered, regardless of the time of day (which determines the corresponding damage to night's rest). These are also cracks in the nipples, the formation of which is also accompanied by a certain pain. These are lactation crises (which is defined as a temporary decrease in the volume of milk production, occurring mainly after lactation has been established), the repetition of which occurs at intervals of 1.5-2 months, and the first appearance is noted after a period of 3-6 weeks from the moment the child is born. And finally, the appearance of areas of milk stagnation may be considered a problem.
Features of the mother's character. It is possible that such a reason may somewhat surprise the reader, but in the development of postpartum depression its relevance is not uncommon. In particular, selfishness is implied, especially when it comes to a first-time mother. Thus, not every woman with a similar character is capable of wisdom in perceiving the need to rearrange her already established habitual diet and lifestyle to suit the needs that are determined by the birth of a child. In addition, often women are simply not ready for the need for a kind of “sharing” with the child of that part of the attention that previously received only from others and from herself. As is clear, all this leads to some kind of competition, which affects the general condition of the mother. Here, in addition, the mother’s inability to accept appropriate responsibility for her own child is noted.
Changes in appearance. Many women literally panic when they see the changes in appearance that childbirth entails and how they affect their body proportions. Moreover, depending on self-esteem and pre-pregnancy appearance, such changes can be a real blow.
The financial side, which in certain situations limits the possibility of adequately providing for the child, which, again, becomes a reason that prevents one from properly coping with the role of the mother.
Changes accompanying sexual relations with a partner. Various aspects are considered here, ranging from purely physiological limitations and fatigue, due to which libido in women is significantly reduced, and ending with complete hostility that arises even at the thought of sex within the period under review.
Other. At this point, we can list a number of circumstances that, in principle, do not need explanation in terms of the obviousness of their connection with the development of postpartum depression. So, this includes indifference and coldness on the part of the spouse or his relatives, lack of support in terms of household help and psychological support, alcoholism, domestic violence in the family and other factors.

Predisposition to postpartum depression

If we consider the issue regarding who is prone to depression after childbirth, then it can be noted that there are no specific “parameters” for this. Accordingly, age, external features, nationality, etc. - all this cannot reliably indicate the inevitable development of postpartum depression in a woman or, on the contrary, cause it. In addition, the predisposition to depression does not depend on when the woman first became a mother and the second time she becomes one. Depending on certain circumstances, it is possible, however, to identify certain risk groups in terms of the possibility of a woman developing postpartum depression:

Predisposition. Here, again, heredity is considered, but this time it concerns not the characteristics of the response to stressful situations, but the direct predisposition to depression (regardless of its type, that is, both ordinary depression and postpartum depression).
Past experience of pregnancy, the completion of which was accompanied by the development of postpartum depression.
Severe form of PMS (premenstrual syndrome).
Experiencing a serious form of stress during pregnancy or experiencing it after childbirth.
The presence of a woman with one or another mental illness.

Consequences of postpartum depression for a child

It is important to understand that if a mother develops postpartum depression, she simply will not be able to provide her child with the care that a healthy woman is capable of. Moreover, a woman with this disorder may refuse to breastfeed her baby, and she may not feel a strong form of emotional connection with the baby, which also complicates the situation.

As a result, as we have already noted, the mother’s attitude can negatively affect the child, this concerns all areas at once, starting from development and growth, problems with slow activity, sleep and behavior, and ending with problems in the future in the form of certain mental disorders (predisposition to depression in particular).

At an early age, it is especially important to establish skin-to-skin contact; naturally, communication with the child and care are important. The implementation of these directions is given to a mother with postpartum depression with great difficulty, if possible at all. Thus, the child’s self-defense mechanisms, concentration and speech development suffer, and he does not feel safe. Subsequently, against this background, children also develop anxiety and difficulties associated with expressing their feelings, because the main “blow” of the mother’s depression falls precisely on the emotional sphere.

The consequences of postpartum depression in the mother manifest themselves in the child in the form of certain characteristics. Thus, the children of such mothers in the future rarely show their positive emotions; their interest in objects and people is less expressed. When contacting the mother, behavior does not synchronize in the way that is typical for children whose mothers have overcome depression or have not encountered it at all. In addition, children with a depressed mother show less dissatisfaction with a certain separation from their mother (compared to other children who react accordingly). On the contrary, attempts to “escape” communication with a depressed mother and dissatisfaction with her condition are noted. In parallel with this, such tactics of behavior are also implemented in relation to contact with strangers who are in a normal state and disposition, without depression.

Postpartum depression in women: symptoms

Postpartum depression can occur in several forms, which are characterized by their own characteristics of symptoms; we will consider their characteristics below.

Neurotic depression

This form of postpartum depression, as a rule, develops in those women who already have certain neurotic disorders. This type of case is accompanied by an exacerbation of those disorders that occurred during pregnancy. In particular, this is a constant manifestation of dysphoria - mood disorders in which patients are characterized by gloomy irritability, an exceptional feeling of hostility towards people around them, increased irritability, outbursts of anger and aggression. These include somatic disorders, manifested in the form of panic attacks, rapid heartbeat (tachycardia), sweating, appetite disorders, and dissatisfaction with one’s own physical condition.

This also includes sleep disorders, sexual function disorders, pain (headache, heart pain), hypochondria (unreasonable concern about one’s health, thoughts about an imaginary disease, often, according to patients, incurable). Here there is also a feeling of despondency, systematically repeated crying, the patients are completely absorbed in the state with obsessive fears, and these fears reach their extreme degree of manifestation towards the end of the day.

A characteristic sign of depression in this case is fatigue and a feeling of inadequacy. Patients have sharply low self-esteem, they are susceptible to states of emotional dependence, often combined with their own persistent desire for tyranny. Neurosis may be based on past pregnancy experiences, in which childbirth was difficult or there was a threat of death during the process, as well as the threat of the birth of a defective or dead child.

The approach of the next birth can be combined with depression that has already begun, combined with anxiety, frequent nightmares and the appearance of obsessive fear associated with the need for sleep. The cause of this state is the actualization of the past, based, accordingly, on the experience of past births.

Melancholy combined with delusional components

Symptoms of this form of postpartum depression include the appearance of lethargy and guilt in patients; they feel completely inadequate. Ideas aimed at self-destruction prevail, which also determines the connection with suicidal intentions. There is also a disturbance in orientation; patients may not recognize close people. Mood swings are sharp, behavior is generally strange. Hallucinations of rather gloomy content also appear, which subsequently manifest themselves in emerging delusional ideas, this time directed at the child. This form of postpartum depression is quite severe in its manifestation, although it is observed infrequently (up to 4 cases per 1000), during the first two weeks after the birth of the child. This condition is also commonly defined as postpartum psychosis; its symptoms are especially often observed in patients with bipolar disorder or schizoaffective disorder.

Depression combined with neurotic components

The main symptoms include somatic disorders (highlighted above), a persistent form of insomnia, and weight loss. In some cases, there is an obsessive fear associated with the commission of any action that could harm the child. Factors contributing to the development of this form of depression include a predisposition to the development of manic-depressive syndrome, a woman’s absence of a husband, and the loss of a relative during pregnancy.

Protracted form of postpartum depression

This type of postpartum depression is most often observed among women. In many cases, it is this depression that cannot be diagnosed, despite the significant number of women affected by it (according to various sources, from 10 to 20%). In frequent cases, the disorder we are considering is disguised under the guise of difficulties associated with raising a child; its development occurs gradually, starting with the typical postpartum blues, which continues after the mother has returned home. Symptoms include a feeling of complete exhaustion and fatigue, which is attributed to the birth itself. The mother is noted to be tearful and irritable. It is difficult for her to bear the tears of her newborn baby, while she feels guilty and reproaches herself for taking poor care of him. Caring for a child and, in general, everything that happens and surrounds you does not bring joy and pleasure. A woman reproaches herself for everything, and, above all, for her own irritability, combined with such a lack of pleasure and interests; she tries to hide such negative aspects of her perception.

Two main types of individuals are prone to a protracted course of postpartum depression, these are: 1) neurotic individuals with a current tendency to develop hysterical reactions in them or obsessive-phobic individuals - that is, individuals who are dominated by an obsessive fear of performing any action in such a way that the result will be harm to the child; 2) women who were partially or completely deprived of tender affection from their mother in childhood.

In the latter case, women did not have to feel sufficiently safe; they were characterized by the emergence of contradictory drives, especially of a sadistic and aggressive nature. Certain aspects related to motherhood and sexuality are difficult for them to compare and accept. The life of such women is accompanied by a constant feeling of insecurity and underestimation of oneself, a characteristic feeling of one’s own worthlessness, which, in turn, determines a predisposition to depression.

Due to regression (return to the past), provoked by motherhood, a comparison occurs with the existing image of a dissatisfied mother. Due to such “pressure”, it is also extremely difficult for such women to become a “good mother”, if not impossible due to the imaginary and possible inconsistency with such a template.

Few women, as already noted, turn to a specialist for advice on the basis of postpartum depression, which is due to the virtual lack of awareness of this problem. Motherhood, therefore, can proceed in accordance with the following two schemes:

"Reliever." In this case, there is a predominance of depression in the mother in a situation where she feels that she cannot take care of the newborn according to such an idealized principle, which she has formed for herself, while the result corresponds to the image of a perfect mother. At the same time, she imagines absolute devotion to her “perfect” baby, upon separation from whom her mood changes for the worse.
"Traffic Controller." In this case, the mother hopes that her child will adapt to normal life. Because of her new role of motherhood, every little thing takes her by surprise, when any activity stops, depression arises, the need to stay at home causes grief. It is believed that when a woman is depressed, being unable to establish adequate two-way communication with a child, her own depressive state shows nothing more than anger disguised and transformed into this form of disorder. A woman, accusing herself of being a bad mother, nevertheless tries to avoid expressing anger towards the child.

Common symptoms of postpartum depression
Based on the consideration of various types of depression and the features characteristic of them, we will highlight the main symptoms of postpartum depression that accompany it:

lack of mood, mood swings;
weakness;
tearfulness;
lack of motivation and energy to perform any actions;
appetite disturbances (increased appetite or lack thereof);
sleep disorders (insomnia or, conversely, too much sleep);
feeling of worthlessness;
inability to concentrate and make decisions;
guilt;
memory impairment, in some cases - perception of reality;
lack of interest in usual or favorite activities, lack of pleasure in anything;
persistence of problems associated with bowel function, headaches and pain of any other type;
detachment from usual communication and environment, from close people.

In more severe forms, symptoms of depression after childbirth are combined with thoughts of harming oneself and the baby. There is a lack of interest in the child's attitude.

It is also important to note that the noted deterioration in the mother’s mood is most significant within the time period between 3 and 9 months after the birth of the child. Most often, it is from the third month that the mother’s depressed mood, irritability and anxiety are recorded. After three, nine and fifteen months, the symptoms also have a similar pattern of manifestation. Symptoms that generally accompany depression are combined with an inability to carry out daily activities, and the future looks bleak.

The likelihood of postpartum depression, and not the previously noted blues, should be considered if the latter does not disappear within the first two weeks after birth, accompanied by disorders that are generally inherent in the condition of interest to us.

Postpartum depression in men: symptoms

The reasons that provoke this kind of depression in men have common facets with “female reasons”. However, certain factors are specific to them in this situation. In particular, this concerns changes in their social role in the family, as well as the current problem associated with the need to accept the emotional side of the relationships that are formed with the child. Here, too, confrontation with the child arises due to the feeling of uselessness to the spouse, which arose as a result of her complete immersion in caring for him. Not the least role is played by the financial side, because expenses, as is clear, increase due to family circumstances and, in general, the situation at work may worsen, which is associated with additional stress. To top it off, it remains to add problems related to sexual life, which may be completely absent due to the wife’s long recovery or due to a simple lack of time.

By the way, it is sexuality that often plays a decisive role in male postpartum depression, which especially applies, paradoxically, to the first weeks and months after the birth of a child. The fact is that global changes that have affected all spheres of life determine for men the need for stability at least in this matter, which, in the vast majority of cases, cannot be achieved.

If a woman refuses intimacy, the scheme works as follows: the man becomes angry with her, then with the newborn, and then with himself - for the feelings that arise from this, which only aggravates the general condition. It should be understood that a man, unlike a mother who bears and feeds a child, succumbs to emotional contact with him with great difficulty. Add here anger and irritation at the lack of attention and other aspects of the developing relationship - and you will understand that achieving this is much more difficult than it seems.

Postpartum depression becomes especially problematic if a man has had episodes of depression in the past, with his general irritability and current problems in marriage, with fatherhood for the first time, with low self-esteem and with a forced acceptance of his own incompetence in matters related to education.

Symptoms of male depression after the birth of a child are typical of depression in general. Here you can note fatigue, problems with potency, depression, short temper, irritability, problems with sleep and appetite. Dangerous factors in the development of this condition are determined by distance from family and partner, reckless actions, refusal to communicate with the usual environment, refusal of sexual activity. In some cases, compensation for this situation is achieved by men through alcohol, drugs, or throwing themselves into work.

Signs of depression are often noticed by people around a man, which is explained by the wife leaving to take care of the child, during which obvious symptoms and signs of his condition are simply not noticed.

Like postpartum depression in women, depression in men can lead to negative consequences, both in the short term and in the long term, provided that this condition prevails seriously and for a long time. With such depression, it is worse to establish emotional contact with the baby, and subsequently full participation in upbringing is also excluded. As a result, a trusting and adequate relationship with an older child will remain seriously complicated or completely impossible.

How to prevent postpartum depression?

As you can already understand from our article, postpartum depression and the consequences accompanying this condition can subsequently be too costly for the mother, the child, and the family as a whole. Therefore, this problem cannot be left to chance. We looked at what postpartum depression is, how long it can last, and it’s also clear in general terms. Therefore, if you do not plan to renounce life for the next few months, or even years, allotted for this by no means pleasant state, and also if you want to experience in the maximum possible way all those delights that are truly possible during motherhood, then certain adjustments are necessary now .

Let's start with trying to prevent depression. Forewarned, as you know, is forearmed. Therefore, following this unspoken law, it is important to first find out whether depression in any of its forms (and postpartum in particular) has occurred in your family, not only in the mother, but also in close relatives, because the heredity factor can play an important role here role. Next, you need to undergo a preliminary consultation with a doctor - he will help you identify possible factors that determine the risks in this area.

Try to control your own state in terms of any changes related to self-esteem - negative fluctuations in this direction should not be allowed. If you feel that “something is wrong,” do not turn away from the problem and do not write it off, having independently identified the reasons that could have caused it. Remember that help, regardless of your current condition after childbirth, is normal and even necessary. Remember another common rule that it is easier to prevent a disease than to treat it in the future. Postpartum depression is a disease, and like any disease, it should also be treated.

How to cope with postpartum depression?

So, let's start with some help. If necessary, as has already been highlighted, you should visit a doctor who will help with certain adjustments and prescribe medication, if there are appropriate reasons. By the way, do not forget that independent drug treatment can be dangerous not only during pregnancy, but also now when you are breastfeeding, therefore the use of any medications, even those not related to the condition in question, must be agreed with a doctor.

Outside help is also required. Do not consider this something shameful, because at first, especially if this is your first child, it will be especially difficult for you, and if you have “reinforcements” from part of the same everyday life, then this can already significantly affect the overall situation and your condition in particular. It is better if you find an assistant (sister, friend, mother or mother-in-law) in advance, without waiting until you reach the limit.

It is equally important to share what is happening to you, within reason, of course, with those who really need to know about it - your immediate circle. It may seem to you that your condition and the way you behave are all quite understandable and even explainable, but in reality this may be far from the case, so explanations are indispensable. A certain restraint and appropriate understanding of the situation, of course, should also be on the part of relatives - instructions about how to pull yourself together or about unfair treatment towards them turn out to be not very appropriate in such a situation; a young mother needs love, a certain degree of consolation and real help in the household.

It is also good to agree with your husband about a “day off” for yourself. A sauna, a swimming pool, a cafe or just a walk to your favorite places - any option will be appropriate due to the opportunity to leave the house and change the environment.

A special point concerns sexual life. One way or another, this topic will have to be discussed with your husband. Reluctance to have sex is explained tactfully and with appropriate arguments, and, as you understand, they are available. So, it is necessary to postpone it for a period of 4-6 weeks - approximately this amount of time should pass after childbirth, the reason is strictly physiological. At the same time, keep in mind that sex is often an effective way to get out of depression, but everything, of course, is strictly individual and based on general well-being in this area.

In reality, the birth of a child is not a limitation in life, but it is precisely with them that mothers compare their “new life”. On the contrary, with a rational organization of your own life, you can bring a lot of positive aspects into your life, it all depends on your approach.
By moving away from the kitchen a little, you can devote more time to yourself and your child, and this is much more important now than culinary delights. Think about what alternative is suitable for nutrition, maybe it’s high-quality semi-finished products or even ordering ready-made dishes; the specific option is determined based on possibilities.

Try to sleep more - you have good company for this. Using a baby monitor will allow you to be out of the zone of direct control over the baby, and, accordingly, devote time to other matters or to yourself.

Also, you shouldn’t turn into, figuratively speaking, a “clown”. Step away from the TV program, from the cookbook, because even the time for feeding can be used a little differently, for example, for parallel reading of a book (naturally, not forgetting about the child, contact with whom is no less important).

Walking with your baby will also be a great time for a change of scenery. As he grows up and you get used to your role, as well as to important manipulations, you will be able to master long distances - as they say, if you have the desire!

Try to fill your diet with foods with calcium and vitamin C - it is these, and not antidepressants, that the body needs most now. Moreover, it is quite possible that the condition you are in is eliminated precisely by compensating for their lack in the body.

By the way, now is the time, oddly enough, to start a hobby or return to the old one.

In any of the listed tips, as you may have noticed, actions come down to a change of environment, flexible activity and the absence of “sourness”, which can occur when surrounded by cereals, diapers, diapers and four walls. It is monotony and apparent constraint that act as a serious aid for the development of depression. Simple recommendations, carried out even through force, can be an effective solution.

Treatment

Treatment of postpartum depression, as well as previous diagnosis of this condition, is based on examination, identification and comparison of symptoms. An appropriate blood test will allow you to determine the level of hormones - this will allow you to get a comprehensive picture of the condition. Features of treatment are based on the depth of the condition in which the woman is (and the man as well, if treatment of depression in men is being considered).

Medications that can be used include antidepressants aimed at treating this type of depression; these are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors; their use ensures the maintenance of hormonal balance. The side effects of such drugs are insignificant, and there are no risks for the child in taking them. Other pros and cons should be discussed with your doctor.

Psychotherapy may be an additional treatment solution. Due to it, it is possible to restructure the traditional paradigm of thinking in combination with changing the existing pattern of behavior and reacting to emerging situations. By consulting a doctor one-on-one, you can achieve truly effective results in treatment.

If you experience symptoms relevant to postpartum depression, you can contact your primary care physician or pediatrician for advice, or directly contact a psychotherapist or psychologist.