How to treat postpartum depression
Dec 31, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Baohua
Introduction
In general, postpartum depression may be caused by factors such as hormonal changes, lack of sleep, stress and anxiety, malnutrition, and abnormalities in brain structure and function. Depending on the individual case, general treatment, psychotherapy, or medication may be used to treat or alleviate symptoms. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and undergo symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance.
Generally, postpartum depression may be caused by factors such as hormonal changes, lack of sleep, stress and anxiety, malnutrition, and abnormalities in brain structure and function. Depending on the specific situation, general treatment, psychotherapy, medication, and other methods can be used for treatment or relief. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation, identify the underlying causes, and undergo symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a physician. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Hormonal changes: After childbirth, the levels of estrogen and progesterone in a woman's body drop rapidly. This may affect brain chemicals such as serotonin that regulate mood, leading to depressive feelings. Mothers can alleviate these symptoms through psychotherapy, supportive counseling, and lifestyle adjustments.
2. Sleep deprivation: The demands of caring for a newborn often leave new mothers sleep-deprived, which can exacerbate emotional problems and may be accompanied by symptoms such as low mood, anxiety, and fatigue. Establishing good sleep habits, such as setting a consistent bedtime and creating a quiet and comfortable sleeping environment, may help.
3. Stress and anxiety: Facing the challenges and uncertainties of parenting, new mothers may experience stress and anxiety, which are contributing factors to postpartum depression and may be accompanied by symptoms such as anxiety and insomnia. Learning stress management techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation, is recommended.
4. Malnutrition: Inadequate or unbalanced nutrient intake after childbirth may affect brain health and increase the risk of depression, potentially accompanied by symptoms such as weight changes and fatigue. Under a doctor's guidance, mothers may use medications such as Bifidobacterium tetragenous viable bacteria granules, Clostridium butyricum viable bacteria powder, or Ejiao oral liquid for treatment.
5. Abnormalities in brain structure and function: Structural and functional changes in areas such as the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex may be associated with the onset and progression of postpartum depression, accompanied by symptoms such as low mood and memory decline. Mothers may, under medical guidance, use medications such as Nimodipine tablets, Fasudil Hydrochloride Injection, or Papaverine Hydrochloride tablets to alleviate symptoms.
Under the guidance of a professional instructor, postpartum yoga can be practiced by mothers to help balance the endocrine system, relieve anxiety and tension, and thereby assist in regulating postpartum psychological well-being.
