Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression has a serious impact on a new mother’s mental health and well-being.  At the New York City office of Elevate Medical, the team of Yung Park, MD, Kevin Lemaire, DO, Sima Paul, MD, and Lesley Cano, PMHNP-BC, are here to support you during these intense feelings of sadness and anxiety. They offer treatments to help you overcome postpartum depression. Call the Midtown Manhattan practice today or use the online tool to book a telehealth appointment. 

What is postpartum depression?

Postpartum depression is a mood disorder that develops in women after childbirth, typically within the first few weeks to months postpartum.

It’s characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and anxiety, often accompanied by changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, fatigue, and difficulty bonding with the baby.

It’s normal for women to experience a few days of the baby blues following giving birth, but if feelings persist for two or more weeks, you may have postpartum depression. 

What causes postpartum depression?

Researchers aren’t entirely sure what causes postpartum depression, but it’s thought that the underlying cause has to do with the rapid fluctuation in hormone levels that occurs after giving birth.

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Risk factors for postpartum depression include:

• A history of depression or anxiety
• A lack of social support
• Stressful life events
• Financial difficulties
• Complications during pregnancy or childbirth

Women with a personal or family history of mood disorders are also at higher risk.

What are the symptoms of postpartum depression?

Symptoms of postpartum depression may include:

• Persistent sadness or tearfulness
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Sleep disturbances (insomnia or excessive sleep)
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Irritability or agitation
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Thoughts of harming oneself or the baby 

Without treatment, you may experience postpartum depression symptoms for months. Elevate Medical specializes in women’s mental wellness, and provides compassionate care for women who are suffering from postpartum depression. 

How do you treat postpartum depression?

The mental health specialists at Elevate Medical craft a personalized treatment program for your postpartum depression. Their goal is to address the underlying causes of your symptoms.

Your treatment plan may incorporate tailored therapy sessions. The practice prioritizes minimizing medication use whenever possible. 

When medication is necessary, Elevate Medical offers guidance on the prescribed medication's benefits for your mental well-being. The team keeps you on the medication for as short a time as possible, and gradually reduces and discontinues the medication under careful supervision.

Elevate Medical’s team wants you to enjoy motherhood and the immense satisfaction it can bring. Call today or use the online tool if you feel symptoms of postpartum depression.