Essay on Postpartum Depression

Essay on Postpartum Depression Essay on Postpartum Depression 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 â€Å"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 â€Å"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