The Risk Factors for Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression occurs after the birth of a child. The mother goes into a severe bout of sadness once she is through with the birthing process. Some women are more likely to go through this than others, but this problem seems to be happening more and more as the years progress. If you are pregnant or may become pregnant, you may want to figure out if you are at risk of developing postpartum depression in the near future. That way you can take steps to prevent the problem from coming up. Here is a look at some of the most common risk factors to keep in mind so you can be fully prepared for the emotions after childbirth.

Causes of Postpartum Depression

To understand the risk factors for postpartum depression, you must first understand the causes. There isn't one single cause that is universal among all women. In some instances, the depression may result from a sudden drop in female hormones that occurs after childbirth. For other women, the stress of a newborn and the resulting fatigue can lead to postpartum depression. Life stresses in general could also enhance the problem, such as financial struggles, difficulties with other children, or marital arguments. Whatever the case may be, there is no denying that postpartum depression is a struggle to be avoided at all costs. That is why it is discussed so much in medical assistant schools.

Depression in the Past


One of the primary risk factors for postpartum depression is pre-existing cases of depression. If you were depressed before your pregnancy or during it, chances are the mood swings and stress related to having a baby will spark a case of postpartum depression. If you have had such symptoms in the past, talk to your doctor about treatments you can go into once you have your baby that may potentially ward off the severity of it all. Your depression could lead to suicidal thoughts or massive mood swings. You don't want any of that when you are raising a newborn.

Postpartum Depression in Other Pregnancies


Another one of the risk factors for postpartum depression is if you had it during a previous pregnancy. You should again notify your doctor of this so you can find preventative measures so the problem does not repeat itself. You might also be at risk if this pregnancy was unexpected. The stress of a sudden pregnancy will cause all kinds of bodily issues because of the surprise and concern. This is especially true if you didn't want a child in the first place.

Unstable Relationships


Also among the risk factors for postpartum depression is having an unstable relationship. Constant fighting and a lack of support can cause emotions to run wild. If you couple that with the financial burden of a new child or the physical strain of the pregnancy itself and you have a means for disaster. If you know that your marriage or relationship is rocky, seek counseling to get over your issues before they lead to greater troubles. Make decisions about this relationship during the pregnancy so the birth of the child is as stress-free as possible. This will lessen your chances of getting postpartum depression.

No woman wants to go through postpartum depression, but the fact is that it happens. You don't have to be a victim of the issue though. You can talk to your doctor about your risks and do everything you can to avoid complications after your pregnancy. With the right help from the right doctor, you can get back on your feet in no time. Then you can actually enjoy the moments you get with your new baby.