Treatment of Postpartum Depression
Here in this post, we are providing the “Treatment of Postpartum Depression“. You can discuss more your concerns about mental health in our community, and we will provide you with tips and solutions in a short time. Keep visiting Mental Health.
Overview
Many women may suffer in silence, dismissing their struggles as a normal part of pregnancy and childbirth and fail to seek care. Treatment for depression during pregnancy is essential. Greater awareness and understanding can lead to better outcomes for women and their babies.
Treatment of Postpartum Depression
Like other types of depression, peripartum depression can be treated through:
- Psychotherapy (talk therapy)
- Medication
- Lifestyle changes
- Supportive environment
- Combination of these
Medication
Women who are pregnant or nursing should discuss the risks and benefits of medication with their doctors. In general, the risk of birth defects to the unborn baby are low. the decision should be made based on careful consideration of the potential risk-benefit ratio of treatment vs. no treatment affecting the health of the mother, the unborn child, and/or the nursing newborn/infant.
APA guidelines for treating women with major depressive disorder who are pregnant or breastfeeding recommend psychotherapy without medication as a first-line treatment when the depression or anxiety is mild. For women with moderate or severe depression or anxiety, antidepressant medication should be considered as a primary treatment.
Antidepressant options during pregnancy
There are the following antidepressants options during pregnancy:
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
- Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
- Bupropion (Wellbutrin)
- Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
Consult with your physician, but note that some SSRIs have been associated with a rare but serious lung problem in newborn babies (persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn).
With proper treatment, most new mothers find relief from their symptoms. Women who are treated for peripartum depression should continue treatment even after they feel better. If treatment is stopped too soon, symptoms can recur.
Self-help and Coping
The support of family and friends, joining a mom’s support group, and good nutrition and exercise can be helpful. Other suggestions for helping to cope with peripartum depression include resting as much as you can (sleep when your baby sleeps) and make time to go out or visit friends.
How Partners, Family and Friends Can Help
Strong support from partners, family and friends is very important.
Here are some suggestions that how loved ones can help:
- Know the Signs
- Listen to Her
- Give Her Support
- Encourage her to seek help
Know the Signs
Learn to recognize the symptoms of depression and anxiety and if you see signs, urge her to see a health care provider.
Listen to Her
Let her know you want to hear her concerns. For example, “I notice you are having trouble sleeping, even when the baby sleeps. What’s on your mind?”
Give Her Support
Let her know she’s not alone and you are here to help. Try offering to help with household tasks or watching the baby while she gets some rest or visits friends.
Encourage her to seek help if needed
She may feel uncomfortable and not want to seek help. Encourage her to talk with a health care provider. Share some information on peripartum conditions. Offer to make an appointment for her talk with someone.
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