Why Postpartum Depression Is Real and Shouldn’t Be Ignored

After childbirth the focus shifts entirely to the baby while the mother is expected to feel happy, grateful and strong. But for many women this period comes with overwhelming sadness, anxiety, exhaustion and emotional disconnect that goes far beyond ''baby blues''.





It is a very serious mood disorder that is characterized by intense sadness, anxiety and fatigue after childbirth, which goes beyond normal baby blues by lasting over two weeks and interfering with daily life and care for the body.

It is a medical illness and not weakness involving hormonal shifts, brain chemistry changes and intense emotional distress including feelings of hopelessness, guilt and disconnection from the infant and requiring treatment like therapy and medication.

These symptoms mostly starts within the first few weeks but can appear anytime within the first year postpartum.

Some serious symptoms like thoughts of harming yourself or the baby requires immediate help.





To help mothers heal there are many treatments which they can undergo:



Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for negative thoughts, EMDR for birth trauma, mindfulness-based therapies for stress and rumination, and interpersonal psychotherapy.

Connecting with other mothers provides hope and shared coping strategies like peer support, self help groups.

Helps partners adjust to new demands and resolve conflicts.

Some physical and lifestyle care:

• Sleeping when the baby sleeps and prioritizes rests.
• Staying hydrated and maintaining prenatal vitamins if advised by the doctor.
• Gentle regular exercises that helps with mood and weight.
• Limiting alcohol and drugs which worsens mood swings.

Some strategies for faster healing:

• Allowing family and friends to assist with tasks.
• Carve out small moments for yourself.
• Use trauma-focused therapies for difficult birth experiences.

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1. What is the best treatment for postpartum?
   
   Examples of therapies used for postpartum depression include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal psychotherapy. Antidepressants. Your health care provider may recommend an antidepressant. If you're breastfeeding, any medicine you take will enter your breast milk.
2. What helps you heal faster after giving birth?
   
   Exercise. Exercise as soon as you've been cleared by your doctor to help restore your strength and pre-pregnancy body, increase your energy and sense of well-being, and reduce constipation. Begin slowly and increase gradually.
3. Do hips get wider after birth?
   
   This hormonal shift can lead to a widening of the hips, which may persist after giving birth. While some women may notice a permanent change in hip width, for others, the hips may gradually return to their pre-pregnancy size as the ligaments tighten over time.
4. How to lose postpartum belly?
   
   Losing your postpartum belly involves a combination of gentle, gradual exercise (like walking, yoga), a nutrient-rich diet (protein, fiber), staying hydrated, prioritizing rest/sleep, and managing stress, all while being patient and kind to your body as it heals. Breastfeeding also burns calories, aiding weight loss naturally. Always consult your doctor before starting new exercises, especially avoiding crunches/sit-ups initially to protect your core.