According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 13 percent of new moms experience postpartum depression within a year of giving birth. A number of antidepressants are available to treat depression and alleviate its physical and psychological symptoms.
Symptoms
Women who feel sad, overwhelmed, and devoid of energy and motivation for more than two weeks should be screened for postpartum depression. Additional symptoms include changes in appetite and sleeping patterns as well as diminished interest in activities.
Causes
Genetics, previous history of depression, chemical changes in the brain and hormonal changes after pregnancy may all contribute to postpartum depression. Estrogen, progesterone and thyroid hormone levels all drop after giving birth, potentially leading to depression.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as Paxil (paroxetine) and Zoloft (sertraline), are antidepressant drugs that increase serotonin activity in the brain, helping to regulate mood and promote feelings of well-being. Women with postpartum depression may take these medications while breastfeeding.
Atypical Antidepressants
Atypical antidepressants, such as Wellbutrin (bupropion), affect three different neurotransmitters: serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine. These neurotransmitters affect mood, pleasure and hormones throughout the body. Atypical antidepressants may be taken while breastfeeding.
Talk Therapy
Some women with postpartum depression find that medication alone is not enough. During talk therapy, a woman can discuss her changing roles, her depression and her feelings about being a new mother.
Support
Join a support group and ask family members and friends for help. Seek immediate medical attention if you have thoughts of hurting yourself or your baby.
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