Postpartum Care
After you deliver your baby, your doctor will schedule postpartum follow up appointments with you. These appointments may be anytime between two days to six weeks after delivery, depending on your health and any potential complications.
At a postpartum appointment, your doctor will screen you for postpartum depression.
What is postpartum depression?
Postpartum (or after birth) depression is generally defined as depression in the first 12 months after birth. For many women experiencing the “baby blues,” it’s within the first 2-3 weeks after birth. Of those diagnosed with postpartum depression, it can last at least a year in 30-50% of mothers.
Symptoms of postpartum depression can include:
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Tearfulness
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Anxiety
- Appetite changes
- Withdrawing from family and friends
- Feeling sad, hopeless or overwhelmed
- Not having any interest in the baby
- Having trouble focusing or making decisions
- Lacking energy or motivation
There is not one definitive cause for postpartum depression, but some women may be more likely to experience this condition if they have a previous history of depression or postpartum depression or have a family history of depression.
Treatment options for postpartum depression include:
- Talk with your primary care provider to learn about resources
- Attend therapy
- Accept help with household responsibilities during the first 2-3 weeks postpartum
- Get mild exercise, like walking
- Eat protein, fruits and vegetables
- Drink ample water
- Sleep when the baby sleeps
It’s important for you to be open and honest if you’re struggling with postpartum depression because it can affect the newborn baby’s health. There can be less bonding time, interaction, holding, physical touch, eye contact, smiles and talking to the baby.
