Postpartum Depression

Postpartum Depression (PPD) is a realistic issue that can occur shortly after delivery, in the past PPD has been a concept that most mothers became embarrassed over. The thought of having PPD can become shameful due to the stigma surrounding mothers who should be nothing but prideful about their new title. In today's society it is crucial to know the signs and symptoms of PPD, it is critical to assess fathers and their chances of experiencing depression, and the importance of the resources you have if you experience these symptoms.

In his 2018 article, "What to know about postpartum depression", Christian Nordqvist said, "It is not known why PPD occurs. However, depression is not a sign that you do not love your new arrival, as some mothers fear. It is a psychological disorder that can be effectively treated with the help of support groups, counseling, and sometimes medication. Anyone with symptoms should see their doctor immediately."

 If you are experiencing any of the following signs or symptoms please seek treatment immediately: depressive mood swings, excessive crying, trouble bonding with infant, withdrawal from family or friends, and suffering with insomnia. There are other types of symptoms and these should be discussed with your caregiver prior to discharge in the hospital.

Education for new fathers should be provided as PPD can be diagnosed for the paternal aspect of a new family component. According to the HealthyChildren.org, "Dad's Can Get Depression During And After Pregnancy, Too", "Depression in dad's is, in fact, a relatively common phenomenon - affecting anywhere between 2% and 25% of them during their partners pregnancy or in the first year postpartum. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), this rate can increase to 50% when the mother also has perinatal/postpartum depression. And it can take a serious toll on the family's well being, specifically their children. New demands and responsibilities during pregnancy and the postpartum period often cause major changes in a father's life too. It is important to understand what risk factors can affect the development of depression such as difficulty developing an attachment to the baby, lack of a good role model, lack of social support or help from family or friends, changes in marital relationship, feeling excluded or jealous over mother-child bonding, lack of rewards in parenting. " Resources for mothers and fathers can include each other, family, friends, a therapist, or a suicidal hotline

I currently work on a mother/baby floor, and we screen every patient for postpartum depression. We give each patient 2 questionnaire's on postpartum depression, one to fill out while in the hospital and one to fill out at their 6 week follow up appointment with their Obstetrics Doctor. Each answer to every question counts from 0-4 points depending on the persons answer. If they score a 10 or above or answer Yes to having a plan to harm themselves, they are immediately seen by social work.

In conclusion, postpartum depression for women and men is very serious and you should seek medical attention immediately if you are experiencing any of the signs and symptoms above.







Resources

What to know about postpartum depression

Postpartum depression: The worst kept secret

Dad's Can Get Depression During And After Pregnancy, Too

Postpartum Depression: What You Need to Know


Disclaimer: This is a college class assignment and is not a real blog post. 


Comments

  1. I think that the stress that comes along with having to take care of a baby, can be too much for some mothers and even fathers. We are all different, and can withstand different amounts of stress, our bodies have limits and I believe that when we reach that limit we become depressed. Like in the video it says that is normal to have "baby blues" but when it goes beyond that, then it becomes PPD, and it needs to be treated, because it can become dangerous for both, the baby and the mother and or father. It is interesting to know but I guess it makes sense that the father can also be effected by depression during and after the pregnancy.
    Very good blog, Thank you for sharing.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Mclaine,

    I always remembered learning about PPD in class and seeing commercials on it. It is surprising how common it is in women. I personally did not know that the father could have PPD himself but the reasons listed make so much sense as to why they would have it. Just out of curiosity, how many families do you diagnose a month with PPD wether it be the mother or father or even both?

    Thank you for sharing!

    ReplyDelete

Post a Comment