While bringing a baby into the world is often seen as an indescribable joy, for many mothers, the process can be quite emotionally challenging. Near East University Hospital Specialist Psychologist Tuğçe Denizgil Evre says that changes in a woman’s mood in the postpartum period can sometimes indicate postpartum depression. She pointed out that this depression, which begins insidiously in the first six weeks after birth and can last for several months, can sometimes last for one to two years. She emphasized that the condition is caused by a combination of hormonal, psychological, and social factors. She stated that the sudden drop in estrogen and progesterone hormones, which rise during pregnancy, following childbirth, thyroid disorders, or vitamin B9 deficiency can contribute to postpartum depression.
Specialist Psychologist Tuğçe Denizgil Evre said that postpartum depression, which occurs in approximately 50 to 70 percent of new mothers, typically lasts two months. “A new mother is confused; she may experience frequent crying spells, struggle to concentrate, and feel like every part of her body aches. However, if symptoms persist for more than ten days, professional support is necessary.”
Psychological and social changes play a role in postpartum depression!
While hormonal changes occur in all women who give birth, stress, interpersonal relationships, and social support levels can also be significant factors in this process. Tuğçe Denizgil Evre, a specialist psychologist at Near East University Hospital, explains that mothers who feel their lives are governed by external factors rather than themselves are at higher risk for depression. She added that hormone levels return to pre-pregnancy levels within three days after birth, but the psychological and social changes that come with having a baby can increase the risk of depression.
Specialist Psychologist Tuğçe Denizgil Evre stated that the symptoms of postpartum depression can be multifaceted, and said that common symptoms include intense sadness, feelings of emptiness, extreme fatigue, loss of energy, withdrawal from social circles, the feeling of not loving their baby enough, and the fear of harming the baby. “Mothers may experience feelings such as difficulty concentrating, poor memory, panic attacks, loss of appetite, weight loss, insomnia, not wanting to care for the baby, and even wanting to kill the baby.” said Specialist Psychologist Denizgil Evre, emphasizing that feelings of guilt, worthlessness, hopelessness, and even suicidal thoughts can occur during this period.
A doctor should definitely be consulted!
Specialist Psychologist Tuğçe Denizgil Evre stated that postpartum depression can progress at different rates in each woman, and that medication under the supervision of a doctor and participation in support groups can be effective in treating it. “If a breastfeeding mother is depressed, she can use medication under the supervision of a doctor. If new mothers are struggling to cope with daily situations, are thinking about harming themselves or their baby, and spend most of the day feeling extremely anxious, afraid, or panicking, they should definitely seek professional help. It’s crucial for the mother to have an understanding, experienced, and supportive adult by her side during the postpartum period. The mother should be informed and encouraged that these emotional difficulties are temporary.”