More, Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression is a SERIOUS condition that should not be taken lightly. There are few routes to the treatment of Postpartum depression. Here are some information that i believe to be helpful. If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact me: womenofchabad@gmail.com

Self-Care at Home

* Surround yourself with supportive family members and friends, and ask for their help in caring for the baby.
* 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. Take a walk, see a friend, do something you enjoy. Get someone to take care of the baby if you can; if you can't, take the baby with you.
* 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 reassuring.
* If the depression persists for longer than 2 weeks or is very deep, talk to your health care provider. Self-care alone is NOT recommended.

Medical Treatment

Treatment for postpartum depression depends on the form and how severe it is.
* Your health care provider may refer you for psychological help and individual or group therapy.
* Support groups are helpful.
* Marriage counseling may be part of your treatment plan.
* It's important for friends and family to understand the illness so they can help.
* Medications can be helpful.

For postpartum blues, no specific treatment may be necessary because the condition goes away by itself. If symptoms don't go away within 2 weeks, call your health care provider.

For postpartum depression, the severity of the illness will guide the health care provider in choosing treatment. Milder forms may be treated with psychological therapy. More severe forms may require medication. A combination is sometimes helpful.

Medications

Vitamins: While postpartum depression in the United States is rarely related to nutritional problems, it is probably a good idea to continue to take prenatal vitamins and iron after delivery.

Antidepressants: Drugs such as fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), paroxetine (Paxil), citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro), or venlafaxine (Effexor) may be given for as long as a year (possibly longer). Other medications that might be used include lithium or valproic acid (Depakote).

Hormone therapy: Estrogen, often in combination with an antidepressant, sometimes helps with postpartum depression. Some women also need thyroid treatment.

Generally, psychotherapy and medications are used together. Psychotherapy alone may be effective in MILD cases.