Having a baby can be quite stressful. Even if you have looked forward to having this baby all through pregnancy, after delivery, it can be quite difficult to manage the stress of taking care of a new born. Baby blues are quite common amongst all moms but if the symptoms of depression continue longer than a few weeks, it is possible that you are suffering from postpartum depression. This illness can compromise your ability to take care of your baby and therefore, it is important to understand it well and get it treated at the right time.

Causes and risk factors of postpartum depression

There is no singular cause that can be held responsible for your postpartum depression symptoms. Some of the common reasons include:

Hormonal changes – Women experience rapid hormonal changes in their body post baby birth and these can lead to a major depression.

Physical changes – Some women feel insecure about their weight, physical appearance and weight after birth and this can be another reason leading to depression

Stress – this is the most common reason since taking care of a new born baby is a huge responsibility. If you are sleep deprived and overwhelmed and anxious about baby care, you might get overly stressful, and you may start to show signs of postpartum depression.

The following are the risk factors that can affect certain women more than others:

• History of depression
• Previous history of a severe PMS
• Medical complications during pregnancy for you or your baby
• Family issues or relationship troubles with your partner
• Not enough support from family and friends

The effect on children

You must know how to treat postpartum depression since it can cause a hindrance in your baby care and lead to many problems in your baby’s growth. If you are suffering from this depression, it can be impossible for you to take care of your baby and therefore, your child might suffer from behavioural problems, sleep problems or hyperactivity. Development is also delayed in children with depressed mothers. Some children might also find it difficult to establish secure relationships in school and neighbourhoods. Children can have emotional problems and be more anxious or fearful.

If you are suffering from this depression, you need not be ashamed or worried. With the right postpartum depression support, you can get cured easily and return to enjoying the boundless joys of motherhood.