What is Postpartum Depression?

If you or a loved one has developed symptoms of postpartum depression, you may be wondering what to do next. Many options include antidepressants, psychotherapy, or even joining a support group. Severe cases may even require IV brexanolone, also known as Zulresso. Breastfeeding mothers can also use medications, but it is essential to consult a doctor first.

Treatment options

Several treatment options for postpartum depression include psychotherapy and psychosocial interventions. These evidence-based methods may be used alone or in conjunction with other treatments. Psychotherapeutic techniques include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, and Parent-Infant Psychotherapy. Parent Infant Psychotherapy focuses on the bonding process, which may be affected by maternal depression. Mothers who experience PPD may also benefit from group psychotherapy or support groups.

Psychotherapy involves a one-on-one or group setting and may involve weekly or biweekly sessions. These sessions require openness, honesty, and commitment. Psychotherapy has proved to be particularly effective for moms dealing with postpartum depression. Medications, especially antidepressants, may also be prescribed to treat moderate to severe cases of postpartum depression. These drugs help boost feel-good hormones in the brain and can take as little as four to six weeks to start working.

During routine postpartum checkups, your healthcare provider will screen for PPD. During this time, she will ask about symptoms and assess whether you have any risks for the condition. She will also discuss treatment options with you and your family members. If the condition is detected early, it can be treated successfully. You may be at risk for PPD if you have a history of depression in the past or a family history of postpartum depression.

Antidepressants are one of the most common options for treating postpartum depression. These medications are generally safe for both mother and baby and may be taken even if you’re breastfeeding. However, if you’re breastfeeding, you’ll need to discuss these options with your healthcare provider. In addition, some antidepressants may pass through the breast milk to the baby.

Diagnosis

If you are experiencing depressive symptoms after giving birth, the first step to recovery is to seek a medical diagnosis. A healthcare provider can give you an accurate diagnosis through an in-depth discussion of your symptoms. They can distinguish postpartum depression from the “baby blues” and other common conditions that can cause these symptoms. It is essential to be as honest as possible during this process to ensure you receive the best treatment possible.

Postpartum depression is a medical condition that can occur anytime within the first year following childbirth. Symptoms can emerge slowly over time and may overlap with other common depression symptoms. The best way to ensure you have the correct diagnosis is to take a postpartum depression screening test, such as the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Rating Scale.

Postpartum depression symptoms can be mild, moderate, or severe. The severity of the depression is based on how depressive symptoms manifest themselves and how much they impair the person’s ability to function. In more severe cases, the depressive symptoms may even progress to psychotic symptoms, including feelings of inadequacy and deserving punishment.

In addition to the DSM, there are other classifications for postpartum depression. For example e, the International Classification of Diseases-10, or ICD-10, defines postpartum depression as a depressive episode that begins within six weeks of delivery. However, many other authorities consider the symptoms of PPD extended for up to a year and a half.