In the development of the infant and newborn, the mother is the most influential person. She must be able to care for the infant with enough energy and passion. Discover more?

Women often experience emotional symptoms four to six weeks following childbirth. They are most likely to experience transient postnatal depressive symptoms (“baby-blues”) which occur two or three days following birth.

This is thought to be the result of hormonal changes, stress from the birth of the baby and the motherhood responsibilities. If the symptoms persist after two weeks, it could be a sign of postpartum major depression.

Postnatal Depression, or postpartum Depression, is a less common condition (around 10-15% of mothers), yet it is more severe and persistent than transient postnatal depressive episodes. Its main symptoms include:

Feelings of failure, guilt, and hopelessness. Doubts about your ability to take care of the baby. Fear of harming the child.

Physical symptoms may also occur, such as insomnia, excessive or insufficient appetite, low sexual desire and diffused pain.

Postpartum Depression can have a negative impact on the child

Recent research has revealed that postpartum depressive disorder can negatively impact a daughter’s capacity to provide maternal care for her future children. Scientists at Tufts University’s Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine used female rats as a model to study the behavioral and physiological changes that occur in mothers who are exposed to chronic stress.

The endocrine data and behavioral results are in line with those reported by studies on depressed mothers. This animal model has the potential to be used for studying new prevention and treatment measures and adverse effects of postpartum anxiety and depression, as well as the effects of these disorders in offspring.

Family and Friends: Their Role

Families and friends should be made aware that postpartum depressive disorder is a serious clinical condition. The encouragement and support of family members and friends can be very beneficial in the recovery process. It is vital that the mother is reassured that her depression is not the result of her own fault, and is not a sign that she is weak.

To ensure that a mother who is depressed is never alone with her child, family and friends can alternate to make sure someone is with her at all times. If the mother is willing, it can be very helpful to have someone else take over the household chores. It is important to support fathers who are experiencing depression following the birth of their child. This will benefit them as well as the entire family.