Postpartum depression occurs in women after they have given child birth. Sometimes after a woman gives birth she will feel symptoms of depression. If this condition is persistent then most likely a women is experiencing this type of server illness. It can occur anytime within the first year after giving birth, but it is most common with in the first four weeks after delivery. This article will briefly describe the symptoms, risk factors, prevention methods and treatments of this disorder.

The symptoms are very similar to that of major depression. These symptoms include irritability, extreme energy loss, and feelings of worthlessness and guilt. Most women that have this type of mental illness report that they resent their child or they do not enjoy spending time with the child. Some women experience it because their child has a birth defect and they feel responsible.

Some of the more common risk factors are age, unplanned pregnancy or substance abuse. It is a proven fact that women that are under the age of twenty are more likely to have this illness than older women. When a pregnancy is unplanned, parenting can become extremely overwhelming and these types of symptoms can quickly kick in. Substance abuse such as drinking excessive amounts of alcohol, smoking, or using controlled substances can affect this disorder in multiple ways. The mother can feel guilty for abusing substances during pregnancy or the child can have a birth defect.

There are no known prevention methods for postpartum depression. The most common thing recommended by physicians is a support system. The best way to attempt to avoid it is by having a good and healthy social network. When a pregnant woman has the support of her family and friends she is more likely to handle the stress of motherhood in a healthier way. Women that have a support system can still have this condition, but this is not the case in the majority of reported cases.

The typical treatments are also like that of major depression. The treatments include medication, therapy, or both. Some people may think it is unsafe for a mother to take medication for it, especially if she is breastfeeding. In reality there are medications that are completely safe for new mothers to take. Doctors also recommend that if a mother is diagnosed with this type of common condition that she should be monitored for several months. This is not because the physician deems her incompetent to raise her child, but simply a precautionary measure.

The symptoms, risk factors, preventative methods, and treatments can be overwhelming for new or expecting mothers. It is important to remember that this type of illness can and is often treated. Some people may not want to report these feelings because of the terrible stories they have heard about this type of disorder. The majority of stories told are actually stories of postpartum psychosis, a much more severe disorder. No matter what the symptoms, this type of condition should always be reported. It’s a serious condition should never go untreated because the mother and child could be as risk.

Author Bio: Christine Crotts has as many pairs of gloves as some people have pairs of shoes. Christine has written a site containing reviews on pink leather gloves, as well as white leather gloves.

Category: Advice
Keywords: postpartum depression,major depression