Antenatal and Postpartum depression
Just like every other class of depression such as cyclothymia, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, dysthymia, atypical depression and bipolar or manic depression, antenatal & postpartum depression are not being highly emphasised because people naturally get carried away with the positive emotions that come with pregnancy and having a baby.
We easily forget that pregnancy can cause depression both before and after the baby.
This is majorly caused by fluctuations of hormones in women, genetics, negative stress like lack of support, lack of finances and addictions, age of a woman, weight gain, being a new mother and unexpected pregnancy among others.
Every pregnant woman needs care and a support network both before and after the delivery of a baby.
If you notice some of the symptoms mentioned above, especially when it becomes overwhelming for her or she has suicidal thoughts, difficulty bonding with baby, panic attacks, losing interest in sex or intimacy, isolation or thoughts of harming herself or the baby, seek counselling, therapy or help by contacting us immediately.
Mrs Uzoamaka Nwachukwu is the Co-Founder of Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation. She is an Administrative Assistant to Bishop Amaechi Nwachukwu(PhD), an Entrepreneur, Teacher, Microbiologist, Counsellor on Grief & Bereavement, Counsellor on Depression, Life Coach on Emotional Intelligence and Life Coach on Mental Health & Wellness. She is also an Ex-Intelligence Officer.
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