Wake Up Nigeria co-host Emem Ime shares her story of how she suffered from Post Partum Depression without knowing it.
She said, “I noticed that with my first child I was always transferring anger and projecting.
“Whenever she cries, I would take her into a room and close the door because I didn’t want to hear her cry. I didn’t notice I was suffering from PPD because I didn’t pay attention to it”. she added.
According to findings seventy to 80 per cent of new moms feel depressed, anxious or even angry a few days after giving birth.
These “baby blues,” as they are called, are normal and they usually go away within a week or so without treatment but for some women, it can be forever.
Postpartum depression (PPD), also called postnatal depression, is a type of mood disorder associated with childbirth, which can affect both sexes.
Symptoms may include extreme sadness, low energy, anxiety, crying episodes, irritability, and changes in sleeping or eating patterns.
Onset is typically between one week and one month following childbirth. PPD can also negatively affect the newborn child.
While the exact cause of PPD is unclear, the cause is believed to be a combination of physical, emotional, genetic, and social factors.
Risk factors include,
- Bipolar disorder,
- Family history of depression
- Psychological stress
- Complications of childbirth
- Lack of support, or
- Drug use disorder.
Treatment for PDD includes
- Medications
- Hormone Therapy
- Therapy
- Natural Remedies
- Selfcare
- Support and care from family
According to findings, certain interventions, including treatment with certain antidepressants and nutrients during and immediately after pregnancy, may reduce your risk of developing severe postpartum depression.
Additionally, participating in interpersonal therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy during and after pregnancy may reduce the risk of postpartum depression in those at an increased risk of developing it.
See the video below for more!
