Essay on Postpartum Depression

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Postpartum Depression-Jess Beckett
QUESTIONS:
1. In what century were the first references to postpartum depression? Why is it still under-diagnosed today?
Postpartum Depression dates back to the 4th century BC. It has not always been recognized as an illness and as a result it continues to be under-diagnosed.

2. Identify the three types of postpartum depression and for each make notes on the following onset of illness/depression
% of mothers affected by it the signs and symptoms typical length of illness

BABYBLUES:
-most minor form of postpartum depression
-usually starts 1-3 days after delivery
-characterized by crying, irritability, lack of sleep, mood changes, & the feeling of vulnerability
-can last several weeks
-estimated that between 50% and 80% of mothers experience them

POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION:
-more debilitating then the “BLUES”
-women suffer despondency, crying, feelings of inadequacy, guilt, anxiety, and fatigue
- physical symptoms include headaches, numbness, chest pain, & hyperventilation
-mothers with this may regard the child with ambivalence, negativity, and disinterest
-tends to be under reported because it’s under studied and still poorly defined
-estimated that from 3% to 20% of births
-depression can begin at any time between delivery and 6-months post-birth
-may last up to several months or even a year

POSTPARTUM PSYCHOSIS:
-relatively a rare disorder
-symptoms include: extreme confusion, fatigue, agitation, alterations in mood, feelings of hopelessness, shame, hallucinations, & rapid speech or mania
-studies indicate that is affects only 1 in 1000 births

3. Make a general list of causes/risk factors for postpartum depression that women should be aware of.

-maternal age
-expectations of motherhood,
-the level of support for the new mother.
-women who have experienced depression before becoming pregnant are at higher risk for postpartum depression.
-estimated 10% to 35% of women will experience a recurrence of postpartum depression
-Women who have the most doctor visits during their pregnancy and who also took the most sick-leave days have been found to be most likely to develop postpartum depression.
-The risk increases in women who have experienced 2 or more abortions, or women who have a history of obstetric complications.
-Severe Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), -a difficult relationship, -stressful events during the pregnancy or after delivery.

4. What are some tips for “self-care” that can be done at home to help alleviate some signs and symptoms of postpartum depression?
-Surround yourself with supportive family members and friends
-Take care of yourself
-Get as much rest as you can, nap when the baby naps.
-Try not to spend much time alone.
-Spend some time alone with your husband or partner.
-Take a shower and get dressed every day.
-Get out of the house.
-Don't expect too much from yourself.
- Don't worry too much about the housework.
-Ask friends and family for help.
-Talk to other mothers. You can learn from each other, and their experiences can be
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