After birth, up to 50-80% of mothers experience a brief low mood due to hormonal changes. The rapid drop in the hormones estrogen and progesterone leads to changes in mental balance. For postpartum mothers, checking hormone status can reveal the cause. Hormone testing may extend over an entire day to detect the most sensitive hormone fluctuations. Substitution may be considered.
Crying days and baby blues: at-risk groups
Women who suffered from psychological problems before pregnancy, denied or repressed the pregnancy and had to deal with a possibly unwanted pregnancy are particularly affected by the risk of depression. Shock experiences, extreme insecurity, partnership problems (unmarried mothers abandoned by the child’s father) or being overwhelmed by the new social role of the mother also come into play.
Early detection of postpartum disorders
Early detection is critical to initiate effective treatment. It is common for postpartum suicidal ideation to occur, and the child may also become a victim (so-called extended suicide). Mothers often do not express their agonizing feelings spontaneously and directly after birth. They usually communicate to the environment and the family only indirectly and are met with incomprehension, which aggravates the situation. This is why spouses and relatives should be alert and watch out for extreme mood swings.
The gynecologist in charge must be consulted in order to counter the risk of postpartum depression. After all, it is not just a temporary baby blues, but a dangerous condition.
Ways out of depression
Depending on the severity of the mental illness, medication is often essential. There are now those that are even compatible with the desire to breastfeed. Antidepressants, unlike tranquilizers and sleeping pills, are not addictive.
Whether behavioral, talk, family or system therapy is necessary as an accompanying measure is decided by the gynecologist together with the patient or her relatives. Sometimes a stay in hospital must also be considered.
The affected mothers need attention, patient listening, understanding and security. In many cases, applying for financial support helps to effectively deal with everyday worries. Medically prescribed household help is also available. Advice on nutrition, encouragement to exercise in the fresh air, a visit to a self-help group and the awareness that mothers can also create space for themselves are the basis of the counseling session.
The physicians of the Professional Association of Gynecologists emphasize that the prognosis for most mental illnesses after childbirth is good with appropriate treatment. They are available to provide advice and support to affected women.