Postpartum Symptoms and Treatment

The advice on this blog is not meant to replace that of your physician.  Please talk directly to your doctor if you think you are experiencing any of the signs and symptoms of Post Partum Depression.  PPD is a treatable condition that some women experience after giving birth.  Prior to your discharge from the hospital, a nurse or Social Worker should have discussed some of the signs of PPD.  Your hormones, life experience and circumstances may influence how you feel after birth.  As a DNA collector, I meet with so many parents from all walks of life - PPD knows no boundaries, social or economic status.  Sometimes a quick check-up with your doctor, share your concerns with him/her and you're on your way to feeling better.  Other times, you may need a little more help.  Today, women are sharing their feelings more and more on the subject of PPD - find a local mom's group, a local on-line forum - somewhere to share your feelings with other moms who have possibly felt the same way.  Before you leave the hospital, make a friend with another new mom - you can coach each other on milestones of being a new mommy.   

Signs of Possible PostPartum Depression (PPD)

Feelings of restlessness and irritability

Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness

Crying Frequently

No Energy or No Motivation

Changes in Eating or Sleeping Habits (other than usual interruptions experienced by new moms and dads)

Lack of Mental Clarity, fogginess or trouble making decisions

Withdrawal from family, friends and activities (other than those you would not normally do after surgery or those you cannot do as a new mom)

Headaches, chest pains or heart palpitations

Having no interest or questionable interest in infant care

Steps to Relieving PPD

Talk with your doctor immediately

Talk to family, friends, clergy and other new moms

Join a new mom chat group or on-line forum

Don't put too much pressure on yourself to return to a "normal" routine

Ask others for help with household chores (this includes the new dad)

Try to get out of the house everyday - get some sunlight - get some adult time

Catch up with your rest (take naps when baby is sleeping)

Having some of the signs or all of the sign of PPD does not make you a bad mother.  Know the signs and get help.

One possible cause of anxiety in a new mom's life, is the doubt of the paternity of a child.  The DNA Lady offers non-invasive, private DNA tests in the comfort of your hospital room, our private office or your home.  Call us for information and set up a convenient appointment.