Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression is moderate to severe depression that occurs after one has given birth. It can occur soon after giving birth or up to a year after. Some anxiety, irritability, and feelings of sadness are common after giving birth. You are dealing with a major life change so that can only be expected. When it starts counting as postpartum depression is when those feelings continue or start a month or more after giving birth. The symptoms are the same or similar to other forms of depression but can also include irritability, feelings of guilt, anxiety, and problems doing tasks. You may also feel anger or resentment towards the baby, not be able to take care of the baby, be afraid of being alone with the baby, thoughts of harming the baby, or either worrying intensely about the baby or having little interest in the baby. We’re not quite sure why this kind of depression occurs but it probably has to do with hormonal changes, changes in sleep patterns, and the stress of taking care of a child. Definitely talk to a doctor and get a therapist when you’re feeling depressed after child birth. A lot of people don’t seek treatment out of fear of being judged as a bad parent. It’s important to talk about these feelings you’re having and not to repress them. Repressing them will only make things worse. You can join a support group or talk to other parents who have gone through this, try to rest as much as you can, delegate responsibilities to other family members, pace yourself, make time to spend time away from baby, and don’t try to be perfect. You need support. Find a great support system that will be there for you. Therapy can help a lot. If you’re breast feeding you may not be able to be put on medication. Postpartum depression if treated will eventually go away if treated, but if untreated it can take months or even years and it can cause relationship problems or problems with the child.

PPD can definitely affect your sex life. It can make you feel withdrawn from your partner, and uninterested in sex. It can also decrease your ability to feel pleasure. Treatment of PPD greatly decreases these issues, usually within a few months. It’s important to talk to your partner about what’s going on in your life. If they’re involved in baby’s life, ask for help! Don’t take on too much than you can take. If you’re not ready for sex, don’t force yourself. It is a good idea to try and spend alone time with your partner though. Spend some time cuddling and watching a movie or go for a walk. You’re probably going to have to get a day planner to figure out scheduling around work, talking care of baby, taking care of the house, spending time on you, and spending time on the relationship. It can be hectic, but if you ask for help and plan ahead it’ll work out.