Treatments for Postpartum Depression

Few events in life are bound to be as emotionally challenging as the birth of a new baby. Whether it's your firstborn or you're adding another to the brood, a new baby can create a roller coaster of emotions. You may see highs that include joy and excitement and lows that include anxiety and even depression. Some short-lived crying spells and mood swings are common for new moms. But when these symptoms become more severe and long lasting, they are referred to as postpartum depression.

A variety of symptoms

Having postpartum depression doesn't make you a bad mother, nor is it a sign of weakness. It should be considered a complication of childbirth, just like gestational diabetes or any other pregnancy-related medical concern. Proper treatment can ease the symptoms of postpartum depression, which include severe mood swings, loss of appetite, insomnia or overwhelming fatigue, not to mention difficulty bonding with your baby. Left untreated, your symptoms may last for a year or more. With treatment, that time usually shrinks. You can speed up your recovery by seeking treatment early.

Schedule an appointment with your doctor if your postpartum depression symptoms get worse or persist for more than two weeks after giving birth. Also call your doctor if you find it hard to complete everyday tasks or care for your baby-or especially if you have any thoughts of harming your baby or yourself. Your doctor can prescribe a variety of treatments for postpartum depression, including counseling, antidepressants and hormone therapy. Often, a combination of treatments, such as medication and counseling, is most effective.

Combination of treatments works best

Hormone therapy involves replacing the estrogen that rapidly drops off after childbirth. This has been found to be effective in easing the symptoms of postpartum depression in some women. Antidepressants also work at a chemical level to alleviate your symptoms. However, your doctor likely will point out the risks, especially if you are breast-feeding. Your doctor can work with you to come up with a plan that has the fewest risks to your baby while providing you with the help that you need. Counseling involves talking about your concerns with a mental health professional. This can help your postpartum depression symptoms and the normal overwhelming emotions that are associated with having a new baby.

With the right treatment or combination of treatments, most women are relieved of their postpartum depression within a few months. For some women, symptoms can persist for up to a year, even with treatment. It's important to continue treatment until your doctor tells you to stop, even if you're feeling better. Ending treatment too early can lead to a relapse of symptoms.