About this topic
Postpartum depression is feeling very sad, hopeless, or down after having a baby. You may hear the feelings called PPD. PPD most often happens 2 to 4 weeks after giving birth. PPD may also cause you to not care about or enjoy doing things that you used to like to do. PPD should not be mistaken for baby blues. With PPD, the mother has mood swings and cries for no clear reason. Baby blues often go away after a few weeks. Treatment for PPD may include drugs and counseling. ‚
What care is needed at home?
- Ask your doctor what you need to do when you go home. Make sure you ask questions if you do not understand what you need to do.
- Get lots of rest. Try to sleep when your baby sleeps.
- Have a regular sleep pattern where you get 6 to 8 hours of sleep each night.
- Ask your family and friends for help. Ask your partner to help with feedings and changing diapers at night.
- Keep a diary and write down your emotions each day. A diary will help you express your thoughts and feelings.
- Try to spend time outside each day. Sunshine may make you feel better.
- Find ways to relax each day and limit stress. Take long baths or go for a walk.
- Share your feelings and anxieties with your partner.
- Have some quality time with your partner.
- Do not drink beer, wine, and mixed drinks (alcohol) and caffeine.
What follow-up care is needed?
- Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep your visits.
- Your doctor may send you to a counselor to help you understand and cope with your condition.
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Help with low mood
- Help with anxiety
- Improve sleep
- Even out hormones
Will physical activity be limited?
Physical activity like sports and exercise may help your recovery. Talk with your doctor about the right amount of activity for you. ‚
What changes to diet are needed?
Eating a healthy diet is important during this time. A healthy diet means: ‚
- Eat whole grain foods and foods high in fiber.
- Choose many different fruits and vegetables. Fresh or frozen is best.
- Cut back on solid fats like butter or margarine. Eat less fatty or processed foods.
- Try to eat more low fat or lean meats, chicken, and turkey. Eat less red meat and eat more fish and beans instead.
If you need help, ask to see a dietitian. ‚
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
- Learn how to cope with stress. Try guided imagery, yoga, tai chi, or deep breathing.
- Learn about depression and the signs that go with depression. Then, you can get help early.
- Join a support group. Learn how others have coped with PPD.
When do I need to call the doctor?
- If you have any thoughts of hurting yourself or someone else
- If your depression gets worse or is not getting better
- If your problems with eating or sleeping continue
Teach Back: Helping You Understand
The Teach Back Method helps you understand the information we are giving you. The idea is simple. After talking with the staff, tell them in your own words what you were just told. This helps to make sure the staff has covered each thing clearly. It also helps to explain things that may have been a bit confusing. Before going home, make sure you are able to do these: ‚
- I can tell you about my condition.
- I can tell you what may help me relax and ease my stress.
- I can tell you what I will do if I think about hurting myself or someone else or if my depression is not getting better.
Where can I learn more?
American Psychological Association ‚
http://www.apa.org/pi/women/resources/reports/postpartum-dep.aspx ‚
FamilyDoctor.org ‚
http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/diseases-conditions/postpartum-depression.printerview.all.html ‚
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists ‚
http://www.acog.org/~/media/For%20Patients/faq091.pdf?dmc=1&ts=20120508T0436083871 ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
Copyright
Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚