What Causes Postpartum Depression? Experts List Ways To Combat The Condition

A severe, long-lasting form of depression which new mothers suffer from after giving birth is called postpartum depression. It can be caused by major fluctuations in hormone levels.

While there is no single cause of postpartum depression, genetics, physical changes such as a dramatic drop in hormonal levels, and emotional issues may be responsible for the condition.

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While the birth of a child brings immense happiness to the infant's parents, it also stirs other emotions such as fear and anxiety. Not only does childbirth take a toll on the physical health of the mother, but can also hamper her mental health, and result in depression. 

A severe, long-lasting form of depression which new mothers suffer from after giving birth is called postpartum depression. It is different from "baby blues", which typically begin within the first two to three days after delivery and may last for up to two weeks, and include mood swings, anxiety, crying spells and difficulty sleeping, according to Mayo Clinic. 

Sometimes, women can start experiencing depression during pregnancy, and it continues even after childbirth. This condition is called peripartum depression. 

Causes of postpartum depression 

Postpartum depression could be a complication of giving birth. While there is no single cause of postpartum depression, genetics, physical changes such as a dramatic drop in hormonal levels, and emotional issues may be responsible for the condition.

“Postpartum depression is thought to be associated with major hormonal fluctuations that influence mood, the responsibility of caring for a newborn, predisposition to mood and anxiety disorders, pregnancy and birth complications, breast-feeding problems, infant complications or special needs, and poor social support,” Dr. Manju Wali, Senior Consultant – Obstetrics And Gynaecology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Patparganj, tells ABP Live.

A new mother can face several difficulties while coping with changes in her body, and this can lead to postpartum depression.

“A sudden change in life, entry into motherhood along with both physical and hormonal changes, difficulty in coping with changes, and lack of support leads to postpartum depression. A good support system helps combat it, along with medical help,” Dr Mithee Bhanot, Senior Consultant – Obstetrics And Gynaecology, Apollo 24/7, and Apollo Hospitals, Sector-26, Noida, tells ABP Live.

Postpartum depression is caused by major fluctuations in the levels of hormones such as progesterone and oestrogen.

“Progesterone and oestrogen levels increase tenfold during pregnancy but sharply decrease after delivery. The levels of these hormones return to pre-pregnancy values three days after delivery. One’s chance of postpartum depression is increased by the social and psychological changes brought on by having a baby. A doctor can assist a new mother in locating a therapy that is effective for her. One should find a listener and helper to speak to, such as a therapist, friend, family member, or someone else,”  Dr Rashmi Baliyan, Consultant – Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Primus Super Speciality Hospital, tells ABP Live.

Not only does delivery result in a sudden drop in the levels of oestrogen and progesterone, but can also decrease the levels of the thyroid hormone.

“Postpartum depression mainly happens due to a sudden drop in the hormones oestrogen and progesterone. Sometimes there is also a drop in the thyroid hormone levels,” Dr. Indrani Salunkhe, Gynaecologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, tells ABP Live.

How can women combat postpartum depression?

The different ways to combat postpartum depression include taking advanced steps during pregnancy to be mentally ready for the possibility of having the condition after delivery, getting adequate rest after delivery, hiring a postpartum doula, maintaining a proper diet, exercising and prioritising oneself.

A doula is a person who is not medically trained, but can provide advice, information, emotional support and physical comfort to a mother during pregnancy, during childbirth, and after childbirth.

“Women can combat postpartum depression by taking advanced steps to plan for their physical postpartum care while they are still pregnant. In addition, they can be real with their emotions, prioritise themselves, hire a postpartum doula, and get enough rest. Women may also seek medical consultation to deal with postpartum depression,” Dr. Akta Bajaj, Senior Consultant and Head – Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals, tells ABP Live.

After childbirth, a woman should avoid stress, and it is the responsibility of her family to ensure that she feels comfortable.

“Proper diet, regular exercise and reducing stress can help women combat postpartum depression,” says Dr Salunkhe.

Women should avoid making major life changes during or right after childbirth, according to Dr Wali. 

She explained that women can combat postpartum depression through exercise, by not making major life changes during or right after childbirth, sleeping and eating properly, educating oneself, and letting their feelings be known in the delivery room.