Postpartum Depression; How dangerous can it be?
Yetunde Adeseluka-Oladejo
Program Manager| Mandela Washington Fellow '22/ International Maternal Newborn Health Fellow '23/ Menstrual Hygiene & Gender Equality Advocate |Maternal and Child Health
Welcoming a new baby to the world is one of the happiest and most amazing events in a woman's life but this doesn't come without its challenges for many new mothers.
As thrilling as this period is, it can be very hard and stressful in which many new moms experience the baby blues – a mild, brief bout of depression – for a few days or weeks after giving birth. However, 10 percent to 20 percent of new moms will experience a more severe form of depression – known as postpartum or perinatal depression – that can interfere with daily life and the ability to care for their newborn.
Women who experience the baby blues are at an increased risk of developing postpartum depression. The condition is characterized by more intense feelings of sadness, despair, anxiety, and irritability. The symptoms are longer lasting and may occur anytime within the first year. It often affects a woman's ability to function, and without medical attention, the symptoms may worsen.
During an intense conversation with Anodi Kaihula and Maureen Valle on postpartum depression: effects on maternal health and newborn care, treatment and management, both professionals dived deep into the causes, symptoms, management, and treatment of this silent killer, unspoken about in maternal and newborn care.
Here is our CALL for ACTION;
1. Integration of mental health services into antenatal and postpartum care is very essential to assist and support mothers after delivery.
2. Teenage mothers - focused health care and economic empowerment programs
A large percentage of teenage mothers are not supported during pregnancy and post-natal and therefore are more at risk of PPD. Healthcare programs and social economic programs should be focused on this cohort of mothers
3. Mothers, be kind to yourself and ask for support.
4. Care should be exerted when taking antidepressants to manage symptoms of postpartum depression.
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5. The key to the prevention and successful treatment of Postpartum Depression is Early Intervention
Women may not realize they are depressed after having a baby or may realize they are struggling but feel too embarrassed to seek help.
ALWAYS REACH OUT FOR PROFESSIONAL HELP!
6. Support from a spouse, relatives, and the community is essential to assist new mothers to navigate the period of postpartum depression.
7. Consistent and sincere words of assurance for the new mothers
* You are not alone
* You are not to blame for those feelings
* We are here to support you and help you get better.
Support for mothers and their newborns is essential for their optimal health postpartum!
Postpartum depression is real, help spread the word!
Global Marketing Manager
1 年Research suggests that women who experience postpartum haemorrhage are at increased risk for postpartum depression and anxiety, potentially due to the trauma of the bleeding and the physical and emotional strain of recovery. Healthcare providers should be aware of the potential connection between these issues and provide comprehensive support to women during and after pregnancy #postpartumdepression #maternalmentalhealth #postpartumhealth