This situation has its reasons which make the woman a prey to depression. Two specialists in gynecology and psychological counseling introduced her to “Sky News Arabia”, explaining at the same time how the woman can protect herself from it, and if she falls into it, how the treatment takes place.
Depression or depression?
Basma Jabr, consultant obstetrician and gynecologist, distinguishes between postpartum depression and the “baby blues”.
“Infantile depression” can appear in 80% of women, and it occurs soon after childbirth, but its symptoms are less severe and quickly disappear within two weeks. As for postpartum depression, 15% of women suffer from it, and its symptoms can be delayed for up to months, and they are more severe and persistent. Postpartum depression affects a woman’s adjustment to life to the point of neglecting herself and her newborn baby.
Symptoms of Postpartum Depression
According to Basma Jabr, the symptoms of depression can differ from woman to woman, the most common of which are:
Sleep disorders, between increase and decrease in the number of hours. Eating disorders ranging from binge eating to food cravings. These symptoms are associated with anxiety, anger, insomnia, and mood swings, with a sense of separation from the newborn, life partner, and family.
From happy accident to dark
The moment of happiness with a newborn turns into moments of tension, distress and hatred of life for some women. What makes them depressed?
Basma Jabra, along with mental health consultant Nadia Jamal, respond that an internal physical imbalance and social and psychological issues are at the root of this condition, including:
Hormonal changes, thyroid disorders and vitamin D deficiency. Divorce and living in social isolation. Women are overwhelmed by the physical, physiological and everyday changes that occur during pregnancy. Anxiety over the great responsibility and inability to bear the burdens of the child. She feels abandoned to her family and friends.
In a study of 973 women suffering from “postpartum depression”, it was found that 26.5% suffered from it before pregnancy and 33.4% during pregnancy.
Serious repercussions
Obstetrics and gynecology consultant Basma Jabr warns against becoming complacent about the condition. Because sometimes it leads the woman to commit crimes against herself or her child without being aware of it, and from there the possibility of harming her child or committing suicide.
Nadia Gamal offers tips for avoiding postpartum depression:
The husband stands next to his wife and shares all the details of the pregnancy with her and tells her about his concern. Examples of this interest include following her food, praising her appearance, and enjoying her pain. Let family and friends surround the lady, and help her at home if the pains of pregnancy make her unable to take care of him.
As to whether the depression has really attacked the woman, Basma Jabr says it can be alleviated and overcome peacefully, if:
The husband and family valued constant, loving communication with the wife, helping her take care of her child and encouraging her to relax whenever she felt stressed and upset. Never leave her alone. Encourage him to exercise and take a warm shower. Seek treatment to lessen the effects.
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