To check for depression after childbirth, health care providers often ask about feelings and changes in mood.
They look for symptoms such as sadness, lack of interest, and trouble sleeping. Providers may also ask about panic attacks or feelings of anxiety.
A list of tools used in diagnosis may include:
- Depression screening questionnaires
- Interviews about daily habits and mental health
- Blood tests to check for other conditions
Risk factors like hormonal changes or a history of depression are also considered. Open discussion with a provider helps identify peripartum depression and decide on the best support for maternal mental health.
Coping With “Baby Blues” Mild Mood Changes
The short-term mood changes often called “baby blues” usually improve without medicine. Most people feel better in a few days to two weeks. It is helpful to get plenty of rest and ask family or friends for help with daily tasks. Connecting with other new parents and making time for personal care can also ease feelings of sadness or worry.
People should avoid alcohol and recreational drugs because these substances can make mood swings worse. For anyone having trouble with feeding their baby, a lactation consultant may provide support. There is no specific medicine given for this mild condition, as it most often improves naturally.
Tips to Manage Mild Mood Changes:
| Tip | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| Rest often | Eases exhaustion and stress |
| Accept support | Reduces feelings of being alone |
| Connect with other parents | Provides comfort and understanding |
| Practice self-care | Helps mental and physical health |
| Avoid alcohol/drugs | Prevents symptoms from getting worse |
| Seek lactation support if needed | Resolves feeding challenges |
Support and Treatment for Ongoing Depression
More serious mood changes after childbirth, often called postpartum depression, may need professional treatment. Help can include talk therapy, medicine, or a mix of both.
Talk Therapy (Psychotherapy):
- Working with a mental health expert can help people understand and manage their feelings.
- Therapists may use methods like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to teach new ways of thinking and dealing with problems.
- Family or relationship counseling can also be useful.
Antidepressants and Other Medicines:
- Doctors may suggest antidepressants to help balance brain chemicals. Most modern antidepressants are safe for breastfeeding, but each medicine should be discussed with a doctor to weigh any risks.
- Some people might need an extra medicine if anxiety or trouble sleeping is severe.
- Brexanolone is a newer medicine designed for postpartum depression. It is given through a vein in the hospital over several days, so it may not be easy to get everywhere. This medicine can have serious side effects and needs careful medical supervision.
- Another medicine in pill form is being studied, which may become a more convenient option in the future.
Key Points About Postpartum Depression Treatment:
- Symptoms often get better with the right treatment, but it is important to keep seeing a doctor even after feeling better. If treatment is stopped too soon, symptoms may return.
- In some cases, depression can last for months or longer and may become chronic.
Postpartum Depression Treatment Overview:
| Treatment Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Talk therapy (CBT, etc.) | Helps develop healthy thinking habits |
| Antidepressants | Balances mood-related brain chemicals |
| Other medicines | Targets anxiety or sleep problems |
| Brexanolone (IV) | Special hospital-based therapy |
| New medicines (in study) | May soon offer pills with fewer side effects |
Lifestyle and home remedies
Good habits can support recovery for new mothers who experience sadness, mood swings, or loss of interest after childbirth. Simple daily actions may encourage mother-infant bonding and help with symptoms like crying spells and decreased energy.
Healthy choices to consider:
- Stay active: Gentle exercise, such as walking with the baby, can improve mood.
- Rest: Sleep is important for recovery and can make it easier to care for the baby.
- Eat well: Nutritious meals provide needed energy and might help manage low mood.
- Avoid alcohol: This can make sadness or fatigue worse.
Managing stress and expectations:
- Set simple goals: Focus on what is manageable each day. The home does not need to be perfect.
- Take breaks: Short periods for personal hobbies or rest are helpful. Asking a partner or friend to help with the baby can allow time to recharge.
- Stay connected: Regular talks with friends, family, or other new mothers can lift spirits and reduce feelings of isolation.
Seeking and accepting help:
- Share needs: It is important for mothers to express when they need support, whether for babysitting or just someone to listen.
- Use available resources: If someone offers help, accepting it can offer time to rest, meet with friends, or simply have a quiet moment.
| Self-care Strategies | Possible Benefits |
|---|---|
| Light physical activity | Better mood, more energy |
| Regular meals and snacks | Steady energy, balanced mood |
| Asking for help | Lower stress, more support |
| Socializing with others | Less isolation, more encouragement |
Making time for oneself, even in small ways, can help improve recovery and support both the mother and her infant during breastfeeding and other daily routines.
Coping and Support
Seeking help is important for managing postpartum depression. Connecting with a health care provider or therapist can guide someone toward useful resources. Support groups for new mothers or those facing postpartum challenges offer social support and can make a real difference.
Postpartum Support International and similar organizations, as well as the Crisis Lifeline (988), provide help through phone, online, or local options.
Finding people to talk to, such as friends or family, also helps many parents feel less alone during this time.
