I. What does postpartum depression mean?
Postpartum depression is a depression caused by physical and psychological factors in women after giving birth to a child, manifested as tension, doubt, guilt, fear, etc. Very rarely, despair, running away from home, suicidal thoughts and actions occur.
Second, the etiology of postpartum depression?
1, endocrine changes: when women are pregnant, estrogen rises, and after the child is born, estrogen falls rapidly.
2, psychological factors: including too worried about the child, unable to cope with the busy life after delivery, unable to accept their role changes, etc.
3. Incidence of postpartum depression
50% of new mothers will have some depression period after giving birth, and only 10% will develop into serious and long-lasting postpartum depression.
IV. Diagnostic criteria for the development of depression
The diagnostic criteria currently in use are: the American Psychiatric Association’s 1994 diagnostic criteria for postpartum depression. If five or more of the following symptoms occur within two weeks after delivery, two of the following must first be present ①②.
(1) Depressed mood.
(2) Significant lack of interest or pleasure in all or most activities.
(3) Significant weight loss or gain.
(4) Insomnia or excessive sleepiness.
(5) Psychomotor excitement or blockage.
(6) Fatigue or lethargy.
(7) A sense of meaninglessness or guilt in all matters.
(8) Decreased thinking ability or inattention.
(9) Recurrent thoughts of death.
V. Treatment of postpartum depression
The treatment of postpartum depression is not significantly different from that of general depression, but lactating women should use drugs with caution. Psychological treatment is very important. Psychological treatment can enhance self-confidence, give care and attention to the mother, and guide her to develop good sleeping habits, which is conducive to the recovery of postpartum depression patients.
Prognosis of postpartum depression
The prognosis of postpartum depression is good, about 70% of patients are cured within one year.