Prenatal and postpartum depression

During pregnancy and in the months following the birth of a child, many women undergo intense physical and emotional changes.

In some cases, these experiences can lead to depression that profoundly affects their well-being.

These disorders occur at two main times: before childbirth (prenatal depression) and after childbirth (postpartum depression).

Emotional changes during pregnancy

During pregnancy, it is not uncommon for feelings of worry, tiredness, or irritability to arise.

However, when these states persist and affect daily life, it may be gestational depression.

This condition can manifest itself through a persistent feeling of sadness, repetitive thoughts, distress without apparent cause, loss of motivation, insomnia or excessive sleepiness, and difficulty making decisions or concentrating.

Some women also experience physical symptoms that do not respond to clear medical causes.

The impact is not limited to the mother. A sustained negative emotional state can affect the baby's development, impacting their behavior, ability to adapt, or early bond with the mother.

That is why it is essential to recognize the signs early and offer a comprehensive therapeutic approach that includes psychological support and, if necessary, carefully supervised pharmacological treatment.

Emotional vulnerability after birth

After giving birth, many women experience an emotional roller coaster due to hormonal changes and the demands of caring for a newborn.

Although it is common to feel emotionally unstable in the first few days, when these feelings do not subside and are accompanied by profound distress, postpartum depression may be present.

This condition involves not only intense sadness, but also feelings of being disconnected from the baby, loss of energy, intrusive thoughts, changes in appetite and sleep, feelings of inadequacy, and, in some cases, thoughts of self-harm.

Postpartum depression can arise shortly after birth or several months later, and without proper treatment, it can extend over time and seriously affect the mother-child relationship.

Various factors can influence its onset: a history of mood disorders, lack of emotional support, previous traumatic experiences, or difficulties in the family or economic environment.

Maternal age can also play a role, especially when a woman is at a stage in her life for which she does not feel emotionally prepared.

Approaches to recovery

In both the prenatal and postpartum stages, it is essential to have a care plan that addresses each woman's specific needs.

Psychological therapy, professional support, moderate physical exercise, adequate rest, and strengthening the support network are key pillars.

In some cases, treatment may include medications that are safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, always under medical supervision.

Recognizing perinatal depression as a treatable condition improves mothers' quality of life and promotes healthier bonds with their children from the outset.