2023-05-31 21:30:52
Postpartum depression is a common and disabling mental health disorder that affects women after childbirth and is characterized by low mood, guilt, and anxiety. In mothers at risk it requires early identification to avoid mental and cognitive consequences for them, their children and their families.
Worldwide, the frequency of postpartum depression has estimates ranging from 7 to 51%. In Latin America it is estimated that 13 to 20% of women after childbirth suffer from it. In the United States, the frequency is between 18 and 21% in the Latino population. In Mexico, it is estimated that depression after childbirth is estimated at 33% of women.
Poor sleep quality influences the appearance of postpartum depression
This is a disease with a significant impact on the quality of life and the daily functioning of the population. Of course, there are several factors that condition the appearance of postpartum depression such as the following:
- Low birth weight of the fetus.
- Seasonal hypertensive disorders.
- Late initiation of breastfeeding.
- Poor sleep quality.
Although a meta-analysis determined that the factors associated with postpartum depression were the following:
- Financial difficulties.
- Birth of a girl.
- Lack of family support.
- marital conflict.
- History of psychiatric illness.
- High parity.
- Low schooling of the mother.
- Complications during pregnancy.
There are also other factors associated with obstetric complications, such as:
- High risk pregnancy.
- Maternal obesity.
- Preeclampsia.
- Gestational diabetes.
In turn, some biological factors can be determined when determining the appearance of postpartum depression, such as the following:
- Low concentration of vitamin D during and after pregnancy.
- Hormonal changes.
- Alterations in the immune and genetic system.
Psychotherapy is very useful
Psychotherapy is very useful in preventing postpartum depression. Likewise, the administration of steroid hormones or a diet rich in Omega 3 fatty acids help. For the treatment of mild cases, psychotherapy for milder cases and drugs and antidepressant therapies for more severe cases are included. And something that many are unaware of is that breastfeeding protects mothers from postpartum depression.
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