Postpartum depression can be a dangerous and troubling condition. Postpartum depression, in many ways, feeds on itself. The woman with postpartum depression may, on top of being depressed, feel some degree or another of guilt that she is not bubbling over with joy about her new baby. In addition, post partum depression can interfere with a woman’s relationship with her new baby and her responsibilities as a new mother. If left untreated, postpartum depression can lead to even more severe conditions, such as postpartum psychosis.

Depression can be caused by a variety of factors. For the woman who has just had a baby, postpartum depression may be a special concern. In many cases, it isn’t known what causes depression. Some research suggests that postpartum depression may be related to the shifting levels of estrogen and progesterone that takes place in a woman’s body during and immediately after pregnancy. Other research suggests that the hormones produced by the thyroid also drop after birth, and that these drops can also cause the symptoms of depression. However, it may not always be possible to attach a single, simple cause to post partum depression.

There are certain risk factors that can increase the chance that a woman will experience postpartum depression. For example, if you have a family history of depression or mental illness, you are more likely to have postpartum depression. If a woman is prone to depression genetically, she is particularly vulnerable after giving birth. Situational factors can also contribute to postpartum depression. Sometimes, depression is brought on by things going on around a person. If a new mother has little support from family and friends, or if she is going through financial or marital difficulties, she may be more likely to experience postpartum depression. Age is another factor. Young mothers are more likely to experience postpartum depression. On top of all of this, stress can play a role, as well. The general stress of the responsibilities of being a new mother can sometimes be overwhelming, not to mention the sheer physical stress that your body has bee through during the pregnancy and delivery process. Finally, a lack of sleep or rest can add to or even trigger postpartum depression. Some research suggests that a lack of sleep, or broken sleep patterns that often accompany having a small baby in the house, can contribute to postpartum depression.

The good news is that postpartum depression is treatable. The most successful treatment of post partum depression will likely include a combination of therapy, antidepressant medications, and a social support structure. In addition, many women have had success with herbal remedies, such as herbal teas or herbal supplements, or even aromatherapy in helping out with postpartum depression. Together, these treatments will exponentially increase a woman’s chances of dealing with postpartum depression successfully.

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