Table of Contents

What is postpartum depression?
How is postpartum depression different than "baby blues"?
What are the symptoms of postpartum depression?
What causes postpartum depression?
Who is at risk for postpartum depression?
How is postpartum depression diagnosed?
What are the treatment options for postpartum depression?
Hormone therapy as treatment for postpartum depression?

What is postpartum depression?

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a serious mental health issue that affects many women after childbirth. It involves a complex mix of physical, emotional, and behavioral changes that can negatively influence a woman's ability to care for herself and her baby. It's crucial to understand that postpartum depression can range significantly in intensity. Therefore, even if your symptoms seem mild or you're feeling just a bit down, it's essential not to overlook them. Understanding the symptoms and seeking appropriate treatment can significantly improve daily life for both mothers and their families.

How is postpartum depression different than "baby blues"?

Postpartum depression is a severe form of depression that occurs after giving birth, characterized by persistent sadness, anxiety, and fatigue that can interfere with a mother's ability to care for herself or her baby.

While "baby blues" are common and include mood swings, crying spells, and anxiety that typically resolve within two weeks after delivery, PPD lasts longer and requires treatment.

What are the symptoms of postpartum depression?

Symptoms of PPD can vary but often include:

● Persistent sadness or low mood
● Lack of interest in the baby or not feeling bonded to the baby
● Withdrawal from family and friends
● Changes in appetite or weight
● Insomnia or excessive sleeping
● Loss of energy or increased fatigue
● Feelings of worthlessness, shame, or guilt
● Difficulty concentrating
● Severe anxiety or panic attacks
● Thoughts of harming oneself or the baby

What causes postpartum depression?

It is believed to be a combination of physical, emotional, and genetic factors. Hormonal changes after childbirth, sleep deprivation, stress, and a history of depression can increase the risk.‍

Who is at risk for postpartum depression?

While PPD can affect any new mother, certain factors increase the risk, including:

● A history of depression or postpartum depression
● Family history of depression
● Stressful life events during or after pregnancy
● Complications during childbirth
● Lack of support from partner, family, or friends
● Challenges with breastfeeding

How is postpartum depression diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider, who may ask about symptoms, feelings, and thoughts to assess the severity of depression. This may include filling out questionnaires about mood and anxiety.

Blood tests may also be conducted to rule out thyroid problems or other medical conditions that can mimic symptoms of depression.

What are the treatment options for postpartum depression?

Traditionally, postpartum depression has been treated with antidepressants and counseling. The medical community has not properly done its job in following science. Science says that women are highly affected by their hormone levels.

We know that pregnancy presents high levels of hormones for a woman, and those same hormones drop drastically when the baby is born.

Antidepressants are not the right answer for mothers that are depressed, instead, hormones are the right answer.

Let’s discuss in more detail a treatment option that we believe will help you: bioidentical (human identical) hormone replacement therapy.

Next steps...

We would love to discuss your condition and our treatment options in more detail with you. We are conveniently located in Peoria, IL and Fairhope, AL. We are here to get you back on top of your game and living your best life.

If you’re ready to take the first step, please book an appointment online.