Pregnancy is a special part of life, but for some women, it is followed by postpartum depression. There are established approaches to handling this type of depression. Here, we look at the ramifications and approaches to postpartum depression, and then describe four supplement products that could potentially mitigate the symptoms of this serious condition.
A Look at Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression (PPD) refers to a period of depression, as well as fluctuating mood, that occurs in some women after pregnancy and childbirth. Symptoms can last weeks or months. About 15% of mothers experience this, with many more experiencing a more temporary form simply deemed “the baby blues.”
To become a mother is exciting. But for some women, it is also an overwhelming life transition. Many physiological and psychological changes can contribute to PPD. One is the hormonal shift that happens after the baby is delivered. Estrogen and progesterone levels drop from their very elevated levels during pregnancy back to normal levels. Perinatal complications can disrupt well-being, too. A history of depression or mood dysfunction also contributes to the woes, and feelings of ambivalence toward the baby can even occur in some women. A potential combination of worries about parenting, social and relational stressors, and other personal and practical factors also contributes to PPD.
Thankfully, postpartum depression is treatable. The mood swings, sadness, and irritability associated with “the baby blues” can be helped by rest and recovery after delivery, social support from loved ones, and taking care of oneself. More substantial treatment is often recommended for postpartum depression. Engaging in psychotherapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, can be very beneficial. Antidepressants or other medications are also commonly prescribed.
Supplements for Postpartum Depression
Complementary and alternative medicines can play a role in postpartum depression. Some of the supplements commonly utilized to alleviate depression are useful for postpartum depression in mothers. Here are four potentially worthwhile supplements that could help women experiencing PPD:
Omega-3 fatty acids: Studies on the relationship between omega-3 fatty acids and depression during and after pregnancy show that it is a strong one. A deficiency in omega-3 intake due to low consumption from food sources has been linked to depression in pregnant women. Conversely, other studies show that supplementing with omega-3s can decrease the risk of PPD, and also reduce symptoms if they are occurring.
Vitamin D: A strong link has been established between low vitamin D levels and postpartum depression. Taking a vitamin D supplement has been shown to make up for this deficiency. It is especially recommended for pregnant mothers and those in postpartum for reducing depressive symptoms. Vitamin D3 is an ideal form of this vitamin.
Folic acid is one of the most-recommended supplements for women who are pregnant, and this carries over to the postpartum phase as well. The recommended dosage of folic acid is commonly taken by patients being treated for depression, as research suggests that it enables SSRIs (prescribed for medication) to work properly. This specific usage can carry over to women after delivering their baby, who are being treated for postpartum depression. Folic acid is highly recommended for pregnant women anyway, as it can reduce the risk of neural tube defects.
St. John’s Wort is one of the most historically and commonly touted herbal remedies for depression, and it could help women experiencing postpartum depression. As a powerful herbal remedy, proper usage of this herb is necessary because it can interact with some medications.
If you or a woman in your family is pregnant or has just given birth, then they might be susceptible to symptoms of postpartum depression. If that’s the case, then a natural alternative, by way of these four supplements, is worth consideration. Talk to your healthcare provider before taking any of these products for postpartum depression, since some of these could interact with prescribed medications.