Postpartum depression?

Question

I'm really having a problem with this. My baby is 8 weeks old, and I thought I would be feeling better by now. I've pretty much been put through the ringer, though. I had an emergency C-Section and he was born 6 weeks early, spent 2 weeks in the NICU. THEN, 4 weeks ago, my appendix ruptured and I spent 4 days in the hospital, and that's when it really kicked in.

I can't seem to stop crying (although I am better now that I'm on antidepressants). Anyone with experience with this? I'm tired of feeling so awful, both mentally and physically.

Answer 1

Post partum depression is a condition that affects new mothers both physically and emotionally shortly after giving birth. It is classified into three different categories depending upon the severity of the occurrence.

The first type of Post Partum Depression is sometimes called the "baby blues." This stage is characterized by sudden mood swings, either feeling ecstatically happy or drastically sad. It may last for just a few hours or as long as a week or two. The "baby blues" do not necessarily need to be treated by a physician.

The second category of PPD is Post Partum Depression. This condition is similar to the "baby blues" only much more severe. It can occur after the birth of any child, not just the first one. In addition to mood swings, the sufferer also experiences irritability, restlessness, and an inability to enjoy doing the things she once enjoyed. Her ability to function normally is impaired and the symptoms can last for as long as a year. Treatment by a physician is usually recommended.

The third category of Post Partum Depression is called Post Partum Psychosis. This is an extremely serious form of PPD. Post Partum Psychosis usually occurs within the first three months after delivery. It is marked by hallucinations both auditory and visual. The patient loses touch with reality and can also suffer from insomnia, anger, agitation, and exhibit odd or abnormal behaviors. Post Partum Psychosis always requires treatment.

There are many reasons women suffer from Post Partum Depression but the exact cause is not clear. Some suspected causes are hormonal changes in the body caused by the pregnancy, and a past history of depression. Thyroid levels also change after delivery and this is thought to affect the woman's energy level and mood swings

Medication is the only way to control and balance hormones

Answer 2

I had two emergency c-sections 15 months apart...what was I thinking? With my first c-section I had my appendix out as well, baby was born 4 wks early, although she didn't need more than 3 days in the special care nursery, she was able to come home with me. This all can be really hard. Thank goodness you took the time to recognize you needed help and got on medication, my cousin had post-partum depression really bad with her second and isn't really taking the time to get on anything she struggles through everyday, she has been taken to the hospital by ambulance several times for it...basically what I am trying to say is YOU ARE NOT ALONE!!

Having a baby is hard, let alone what you have been through...REST, REST, REST!! That is all I can say, I just had my 2nd daughter 3 days ago and I get little rest throughout the day and there is much more post-partum symptoms this time than the last!

Answer 3

First, let me say congrats on your little one! And congrats on talking with your MD and getting help (with the meds). That is a step that is hard for many women.

I have 2 children, and have had PPD with both. My first one, fortunately, resolved within a few months with medication. My second one is 9 months old and I am still having problems. I went on bedrest with her at 23 weeks, and while she made it to 37 1/2 weeks, she was an emergency C-section as well. At 6 weeks old she had to go to my folks for 4 days b/c I had the stomach flu that I couldn't shake, so I can relate to some of your situation.

I can't really tell you what made it tolerable for me, but rest was a big thing. Easy to say and hard to do, I know! My other problem was the feeling of guilt---"Why should I be depressed when I had someone this wonderful enter my life?". Please know that you didn't DO anything to make this start, and that it will go away. For now, focus on you, your baby and whatever helps you to get through. It does get better! I can't say when, but it does---like I said, the first time it was a few months, this time longer, but I am beginning to see the light!

I hope that this helps!

Answer 4

I experienced PPD with my first child and waited three months to do anything about it. From personal experience I have to say that meds helps tremedously. I did everything else like start to find support from fellow moms, ask my husband to help and also started to take time for myself and excerise. I never realized how aweful I felt til after about a month on meds- then I realized what an aweful place I had been in, I had felt so tired and wore out all the time. After weeks on the meds I felt myslef again.-- hang in there trust me it will get better. No one seems to tell us honestly how the shift into motherhood is overwhelming both physically and mentally- give yourself some time and find some support!

Answer 5

Awwwww honey, I am so sorry that you feel bad. Yes, I had depression after my second son was born. What you need to do is give the medication time to work in your body. Usually it takes 4 to 6 weeks to work thru your body. Look at your beautiful baby and be grateful that he is healthy, be grateful that now you are healthy, be grateful that you were able to bring your baby home. Just look for the "silver lining" around that dark cloud honey, you will be fine. Congratulations on your new little life !!! Good Luck !!!

Answer 6

My 4th baby is 10 weeks and I am having post pardum also. I have been on anti depressants but not seeming to do all that much. I am sooo with ya. I have 4 and no one really wants to watch all 4. oldest is 5 youngest 10 weeks. If u need to talk just e-mail me

Answer 7

You've had a rough start, but it will get better. Your baby should start smiling soon, and that will make things a whole lot better. A couple of things;
Get off the drugs as soon as you can. They will not help you in the long run.
Keep a diary, so you can see that things are improving.

Answer 8

Sell off the kid to adoptive parents, at a profit. (adoption agencies
have huge wating lists, sometimes years long) If the little shi* is kinda cute, some poor sucker will probably pay several thousand dollars for it. Use the money to go out and have some fun. Also, you won't need a baby sitter.

Answer 9

Sorry if I sound mean but I'd say "THROW THE ANTI DEPRESSANTS OUT THE WINDOW". What you really need to do is try your best to relax. I dont know if you believei n GOD, but if you do, you just need to pray on it and ask GOD to heal your body and your mind, and if you dont, NOW is the best time to start!


Depression is the worst thing a new mother can experience. I have seen and heard of many people who has made it our of depression with out the medicine and I know you can do the same.


CONGRATS on your little one and God Bless!

Answer 10

Too bad.