Postpartum Depression

After 9 months of pregnancy and the pains of labor, the last thing a mother wants is postpartum depression. As if raising a child is not difficult enough, postpartum depression is an increasingly common type of depression that occurs in mothers after giving birth. In fact, a recent study found that 1 in 7 new moms may experience symptoms of postpartum depression. The prevalence of postpartum depression has triggered a frantic search for some kind of treatment, or possibly even a cure.

How is Postpartum Depression Diagnosed?

While postpartum depression is very common and has been a known entity for a long time, experts feel as if it is not being properly diagnosed. In many cases, postpartum depression is diagnosed only after birth when symptoms are present, when in fact there are several risk factors that can be found in a pregnant woman as early as their first prenatal doctor’s visit.

Immediately after birth, it is important for the mother, doctor, husband and loved ones to look for any signs of depression. There should also be a postpartum depression screening at the doctor’s visit six weeks after giving birth. If the mother is feeling signs of depression, a health care professional will ask about the nature of these feelings, including if they ever thought about harming themselves or the baby in any way. After making sure the symptoms of depression are not related to another ailment such as bipolar disorder or hyperthyroidism, the mother will be diagnosed with postpartum depression.

What are the Symptoms of Postpartum Depression?

Postpartum depression, like most types of depression, has differing symptoms based on the individual. However, most people diagnosed with postpartum depression will experience at least some of these symptoms.

• Oversleeping
• Issues focusing, learning, or remembering
• Frequent and often unexplained crying
• Feelings of despair and sadness
• Loss of hope
• Inability to care for your baby or do everyday tasks
• Issues developing intimacy and bonding with your baby
• Uninterested in things you used to enjoy, such as food, sex, and self-care

What are the Treatment Options for Postpartum Depression?

In some cases, postpartum depression can fix itself and go away within three months of giving birth, but if symptoms are severe or last over 10 days it is advised to seek professional treatment. The best treatment will include medication, therapy, and support groups. In more severe cases, hospitalization may become necessary. Some other ways to fight the debilitating effects of postpartum depression is to workout, enjoy some relaxation, surround yourself with loved ones, and try to have some fun!

Participate in a Postpartum Depression Clinical Trial in San Diego

If you are looking for effective and efficient treatment for postpartum depression, Synergy Research Centers can help. Located in San Diego, Synergy Research Centers run clinical research studies to help find new treatments for a variety of ailments and diseases, including postpartum depression. If you or someone you love is experiencing postpartum depression, contact Synergy Research Centers about joining a postpartum depression clinical trial today. Give us a call at (619) 303-6130.