Maternal Depression More Frequent After Postpartum Period

Posted on June 10, 2014

Postpartum depression has many negative consequences for the mother and her child, and society is right to promote awareness of this condition. But now, a study of new mothers indicates that depression is more common four years after childbirth than at any point during the postpartum period.

Pregnancy and childbirth are emotionally and physically wrenching experiences and the overwhelming fatigue, anxiety, irritability, and sadness are seemingly part and parcel to the role of a new mother. When these symptoms are severe or long-lasting, the ability of a mother to care for her child or herself can be impaired. This, of course, leads to many significant negative effects on a mother's relationships, the child's cognitive and emotional development, and the ability of the mother and child to form appropriate bonds. Thankfully, because of increased attention surrounding postpartum depression in the last decade, practitioners (and friends and family members) are better equipped to recognize this type of depression and offer effective treatments for most new moms who suffer from postpartum depression.

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Category(s):Pregnancy & Birthing

Source material from Brain Blogger