What causes postpartum depression?

Written by Yue Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 03, 2024
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The causes of postpartum depression are still unclear, but the following people are prone to develop postpartum depression. Those who have had multiple children or have gone through numerous pregnancies before conceiving, as well as those with a poor reproductive history and teenage mothers, and mothers who had premature births. Additionally, individuals with pregnancy complications, such as pregnancy-induced hypertension or gestational diabetes, are also likely to develop postpartum depression. Moreover, family relationships play a significant role; those in discordant family relations or where the newborn's gender does not meet their expectations are also susceptible.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
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Is the incidence of postpartum depression high?

The incidence of postpartum depression is around 15%-30%, and it is a common psychiatric disorder among women after childbirth. This condition arises due to the change in social roles for women postpartum, as well as changes in hormones, psychological stress, emotional levels, and attention from family members, bringing a series of physical, emotional, and psychological changes. Typically, postpartum depression occurs within six weeks of childbirth and can last throughout the entire postpartum period, with some cases lasting even longer, up until the child starts school.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
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Does postpartum depression require hospitalization?

Postpartum depression generally does not require hospital treatment. Family members should provide more care and communicate more with the mother. It is important to offer timely advice, encouragement, and sympathy to provide psychological comfort, which can help eliminate some negative emotions. Additionally, listening to soothing music can also be beneficial. Besides these, attention should be paid to adjusting the dietary structure. It is advisable to consume light, easily digestible foods and maintain balanced nutrition. Spicy and stimulating foods should be avoided as they can worsen the symptoms and negatively affect the treatment.

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Can postpartum depression breastfeed?

Postpartum depression generally does not affect the quality of breast milk. Whether a mother with postpartum depression can continue breastfeeding should be comprehensively judged based on the physical condition of the patient. If the depression is relatively mild, then breastfeeding is completely possible. However, if the symptoms of the mother's depression are severe and she is unable to care for the baby herself, then breastfeeding should not continue, and active treatment should be pursued. The decision to resume breastfeeding should be based on the physical condition of the mother. To prevent postpartum depression, it is essential that family members or husbands provide sufficient care and love.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
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What are the symptoms of postpartum depression?

Women often experience emotional changes after childbirth, which may be related to mental tension, stress, and physical fatigue postpartum. Clinically, this is mainly manifested as a decline in psychological function or impairment in social functions, presenting as negative emotional states with prolonged duration. Symptoms primarily include feeling low, frequent crying, insomnia, loss of appetite, depression, and intense guilt and feelings of inferiority towards the baby. These are all symptoms of postpartum depression.

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How long will the symptoms of postpartum depression get better?

The duration of symptoms for postpartum depression can vary from person to person, as each individual experiences different levels of symptoms. Postpartum depression most often occurs within six weeks after childbirth, and generally, symptoms may alleviate on their own within three to six months after giving birth. The onset of postpartum depression is primarily a stress response caused by physiological and psychological factors. With careful attention from family members and proper treatment, recovery is usually swift. However, in severe cases, recovery could take up to six months or even a year, and there is a possibility of relapse during subsequent pregnancies.