Postpartum Depression Health Video

Video Transcript

SKYLAR ULRICH, MD: Hi. I'm Dr. Skylar Ulrich. I'm going to talk about postpartum depression. Postpartum depression is an extremely serious condition. This is because it has an effect on both the mother's well being and the newborn baby's well being. Postpartum depression is generally characterized by the onset of changing mood shortly after delivery of the baby. It may start as early as the first 24 hours. It is characterized by loss of interest in activity, extreme sadness, change in interest in usual activities, change in appetite, change in sleep pattern, loss of interest in caring for the newborn child, and also loss of interest in caring for oneself. The treatment of postpartum depression, it's very important that a clinician recognized postpartum depression early on. The role of family members is also very important in recognizing postpartum depression. The diagnosis is by clinical history and by DSM-IV criteria for depression which include loss of interest in activity, extreme sadness, change in appetite, change in sleeping patterns, and loss of self-worth. Prevention of postpartum depression: It's difficult to know who may suffer from postpartum depression. Typically, if the patient has been on antidepressants prior to pregnancy, it is essential to restart the antidepressant in the first 24 hours after delivery of the child to prevent postpartum depression. Having a supportive family, a supportive system, and alternate caregivers also may help new mothers to avoid postpartum depression. How to take action? Talk to your family, talk to your caregivers about feelings you may be having, whether they are feelings of sadness, loss of self-worth, loss of interest in your child, or if you even have a question as to whether you may be suffering from postpartum depression, it's important to seek help early.