Yes, it is a type of mood disorder thataffects some women after giving birth .
It is characterized by feelings of sadness, anxiety,irritability and exhaustion that can interfere with a brestfeeding mother´s ability to care for herself and her baby.
Postpartum depression usualy occurs within the first few weeks or month after giving birth,but it can develop anytime during the first year of motherhood.
THE CAUSE OF POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION
Postpartum depression – Symptoms and causes
There is no single cause of postpartum depression, but genetics, physical changes and emotional issues may play a role.
- Physical changes. After childbirth, a dramatic drop in the hormones estrogen and progesterone in your body may contribute to postpartum depression. Other hormones produced by your thyroid gland also may drop sharply — which can leave you feeling tired, sluggish and depressed.
- Emotional issues. When you’re sleep deprived and overwhelmed, you may have trouble handling even minor problems. You may be anxious about your ability to care for a newborn. You may feel less attractive, struggle with your sense of identity or feel that you’ve lost control over your life. Any of these issues can contribute to postpartum depression.
COMPLICATION
Left untreated, postpartum depression can interfere with mother-child bonding and cause family problems.
For mothers. Untreated postpartum depression can last for months or longer, sometimes becoming an ongoing depressive disorder. Mothers may stop breastfeeding, have problems bonding with and caring for their infants, and be at increased risk of suicide. Even when treated, postpartum depression increases a woman’s risk of future episodes of major depression.
Postpartum depression symptoms may include: Depressed mood or severe mood swings Crying too much Difficulty bonding with your baby Withdrawing from family and friends Loss of appetite or eating much more than usual Inability to sleep, called insomnia, or sleeping too much Overwhelming tiredness or loss of … See more
HOW TO TREAT POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION:
In addition to professional treatment, you can do some things for yourself that build on your treatment plan and help speed recovery. 1. Make healthy lifestyle choices.Include physical activity, such as a walk with your baby, and other forms of exercise in your daily routine. Try to get enough rest. Eat healthy.