How to Track Postpartum Depression So You Know You Are On The Road To Recovery

What is Postpartum Depression?

Giving birth to their baby is the most rewarding experience for mothers. It can, however, also be the most challenging phase. Around 50-75% of women experience postpartum depression and may undergo a range of physical and emotional changes. 

Postpartum or postnatal depression occurs during or after pregnancy. However, the good news is that this condition is curable with medication, counselling, physical, and emotional support. And if you track your postpartum stage correctly, it will even help speed up your recovery process.

What Causes Postpartum Depression?

Here are some of the reasons and causes that can be accounted for the onset of postpartum depression.

• Sleep Deprivation: Lack of sleep can make you feel fatigued and overwhelmed. It can make you question your ability to nurture your baby, increasing the risk of postnatal depression.

• Hormonal Changes: After childbirth, there’s a significant drop in hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. This can contribute to postpartum depression.

• Self-image: The body goes through significant changes during pregnancy and after childbirth. It can make many mothers feel less attractive. The constant struggle with their sense of self-identity can also lead to depression gradually.

• Anxiety: Feeling anxious and bothered persistently about pregnancy or taking care of a newborn baby can make even minor problems appear severe. This can lead to sadness and helplessness in many women. 

How Long Does Postpartum Depression Last?

Postpartum depression can last anywhere around 8 to 12 weeks after childbirth. However, early diagnosis and treatment can help you recover better, and faster. Keeping track of the different stages of postpartum depression can ensure your recovery process speeds up. And for that, you need to be aware of the different types of postpartum depression.

What are The Different Types And How to Track?

Postpartum depression consists of three types:

1. Baby Blues: This condition occurs in the first week after delivery and mostly affects women right after childbirth. It is also known as postpartum blues, and includes persistent sadness, anxiety, and bouts of crying. 

2. Postpartum Depression (PPD): It is more acute than baby blues and appears within days of delivery or might begin gradually. When you experience signs like constant fatigue, anxiety, guilt, irritability, and uncontrolled crying, you have entered the second stage. 

This stage is difficult as the mother finds herself drifting away from her child and may find herself unable to take care of herself or the child.

3. Postpartum Recovery: Once you cross the difficult phases of postnatal depression, you enter the final stage, which appears 5-6 months after childbirth. In this stage, you slowly begin to regain strength, and your body begins to return to normal. 

What Are The Different Symptoms of Postpartum Depression?

If you experience five or more signs of the symptoms discussed below, you may have postpartum depression.

1. Changes that Hinder Your Daily Activities

• Constant feeling of fatigue
• Unhealthy eating habits such as binging or starving
• Disinterest in activities you previously enjoyed
• Oversleeping or dealing with insomnia

2. Changes in Your Feelings

• Constant feeling of shame or guilt
• Feeling scared or getting worked up easily
• Going through major mood swings
• Feeling depressed throughout the day

3. Changes on Thoughts Regarding Your Ability to Take Care of The baby

• Inability to bond with your baby
• Having thoughts about hurting the baby or yourself

Management of Postpartum Depression 

You may find relief from postpartum depression by making some simple lifestyle changes. Below we have listed a few practices that can elevate your mood and manage your symptoms better.

• Rest And Relax: Give your body the time to recover. Ensure you get ample rest and adequate sleep. Set up a schedule and take turns with your partner to care for the baby.

• Communicate With Your Loved Ones: Be open about what you are going through. Speak to your family or friends. It can provide an outlet for your thoughts and will also give you a chance to hear them.

• Cut Back On all Chores: Take some time to focus on activities that you cherish. Participating in an activity that brings you joy can be therapeutic and relaxing.

• Practice Yoga: It is good to keep physically active and perform light stretches. Yoga can also help in hormone regulation and uplift your mood. But remember to consult your doctor first. Do not push yourself, or perform extreme poses. Begin with stretches that you find comfortable.

Postpartum depression is a common complication that most mothers face. However, tracking the different stages, and ensuring proper care, can speed up your recovery process. Discuss with your partner and family, as it will help manage your symptoms better and make it easier to look after your baby.