Postpartum Depression: Why am I so Sad?

Even though it should be a happy time – there are millions of women out there who are feeling sad and depressed after their pregnancy.

The first thing that you need to know about this is that you’re not alone – almost 80% of women experience fluctuations in their mood after pregnancy. Some feelings you might be experiencing could be sadness, loneliness, lack of emotions toward baby and the guilt of those feelings.

For most women, the “Baby Blues” last a couple weeks after giving birth and peak 3-5 days after delivery. This is to be expected as hormones drop considerably after pregnancy. Hormones like estrogen, progesterone and cortisol that have been increased to help your baby development. But for 10-20% the Baby Blues may delve into a more serious condition known as Postpartum Depression.

What Causes Postpartum Depression?

There are no specific causes to postpartum depression.  Some suggestions that doctors provide are a hormone imbalance, stress, pain caused from pregnancy, and emotional changes after pregnancy.

Do I have Postpartum Depression?

First thing you will have to do is go to your doctor to be sure! However, there are some common symptoms of Postpartum Depression that you should keep an eye out for.

These include:

• Loss of Energy
• Frequent crying and overall sadness
• Lack of interest in your baby
• Lack of Happiness over things that usually give pleasure
• Difficulties in Sleeping
• Headaches
• Chest Pain/ Rapid Heart Beat
• Anxiety
• Weight loss
• Trouble making decisions
• Trouble Concentration
• Feelings of Guilt/Worthlessness
• Decreased interest in sex
• Feelings of rejection
• Thoughts of death/suicide

Postpartum Treatment Options

Postpartum treatments are vast and depend on the individual.

Such treatments could include:

• Antidepressants
• Psychotherapy
• Hormone Therapy
• Marriage Counseling

For more information: Postpartum Depression