New mothers are triggered with series of conflicted emotions, from excitement to fear and anxiety. This fear can result in “postpartum baby blues,” in other words, “postpartum depression.” The symptoms may include mood swings, anxiety and lack of sleep to name a few.
Reasons why screening for depression is important for new mothers:
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Increased risk of miscarriage
Depression during pregnancy can create can create hurdles in the development of the fetus, increasing the risk of miscarriage. Too much stress is not healthy for the fetus. New mothers should be happy and stress-free during pregnancy.
Source: www.tommys.org
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Affects the development of the baby
Post pregnancy depression or postpartum depression can curtail the emotional and cognitive development of the baby. A negative impact is created on the newborn when there is a lack of interaction or negative interaction.
Source: www.familytimemagazine.com
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Mother’s health is affected
Hopelessness and inertia are often symptoms of depression. It becomes very difficult for a mother to live with anxiety. There may be a lack of sleep, extreme mood swings which affect the physical as well as the mental health of the mothers.
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Remove the stigma
Mental health has been stigmatised. Mothers would not share about their experience with depression due to the taboo attached to depression. Having a universal screening to all new mothers can help remove such stigma.
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Postpartum Depression can lead to other conditions
Postpartum depression and post-traumatic stress disorder can be interrelated. The symptoms of postpartum depression and post-traumatic stress disorder are correlated. Screening new mothers of such conditions can help in better diagnosis and treatment.
Are you a new mother who needs help controlling your emotions? Speak to the Experts at YourDOST who can help you understand and resolve your condition.