1 in 5 new mothers experiences postpartum depression: Doctors

While parenthood comes as a blessing for many for more than 20 per cent of mothers the new chapter of life creates stress anxiety and postpartum depression which can turn fatal for both the mother and child without adequate support said doctors on Motherrsquos Day on SundayMotherrsquos Day is celebrated every year on the second Sunday of MayPostpartum depression is common but a treatable medical condition that many women face after childbirth While the exact cause can be difficult to identify several factors contribute to these feelings of sadness anxiety and tirednessThese can result from genetics hormonal changes sleep deprivation fatigue or the pressure of becoming a motherThe overall pooled estimate of the prevalence of postpartum depression was 22 per cent reporting postpartum depression within two weeks of deliveryldquoThe journey to parenthood presents couples with a myriad of challenges often impacting their emotional wellbeing profoundly The complexities surrounding late pregnancies assisted conception methods like IVF and the burden of preterm deliveries weigh heavily on maternal mental healthrdquo Dr Saurabh Mehrotra Associate Director Psychiatry Institute of Neurosciences Medanta Gurugram told IANSStudies reveal that maternal mental illness during pregnancy correlates with adverse outcomes for both mother and child including preterm delivery and poor neurodevelopmentldquoAt Medanta we witness approximately 7080 per cent of mothers having postpartum blues out of which 20 per cent of mothers with postpartum depression grapple with such mental health challenges emphasising the critical need for comprehensive emotional support and holistic care throughout the perinatal periodrdquo Dr Saurabh saidThe symptoms of postpartum depression include insomnia loss of appetite intense irritability and even difficulty bonding with the baby For mothers facing the postpartum blues asking for help may be one of the most crucial steps as it may help them easily bond with the baby the experts saidBut ldquoif left untreated the condition can last several months or longerrdquo Dr Teji Dawane Senior Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist Motherhood Hospitals Whitefield Bengaluru told IANSldquoOne of the first steps in addressing postpartum depression is early detection through screenings during prenatal and postnatal care and giving importance to emotional wellbeing It is also encouraged to seek help from professional support services such as counselling and therapyrdquo Dr Teji saidSometimes treatment options also include medication like antidepressants to manage symptoms effectively It is equally important to create a supportive family environment and develop selfcare practices for new parents the experts notedThis story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed agencies Midday accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability trustworthiness reliability and data of the text Midday managementmiddaycom reserves the sole right to alter delete or remove without notice the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever