Warning about PPD

[Wondercat]

I'm sure most of you think that post partum depression is something that happens to other women. In my case, I was fortunate enough that this was true. I got really sleep deprived and emotional (sometimes cranky, sometimes crying) - but I made it through without any major issues. However, last night a friend of mine with an 8-day-old baby was hospitalized with what has now been diagnosed with severe post partum psychosis. At the recommendation of the OB, her mother finally called 911. She was brought to the ER under sedation, and was strapped to the hospital bed with a police escort to prevent her trying to hurt herself or others. This happened after hours of her ranting incoherently and singing at the top of her lungs to the point that all the neighbors were outside her house wondering what was going on. Now, instead of being home with her beautiful baby she is likely to spend the next couple weeks institutionalized.

The reason I am posting this is that my friend did not have to get this bad if her husband and mother who was staying with her had been prepared to recognize the signs of an impending crisis and had called for help sooner. I am hoping that some of you will read this and talk about PPD with your husbands and other loved ones who are going to be around you when your baby is born. I am doing an FET in the next couple of months and I will definitely be talking to my husband about what to look for and when he should get me help even if at that time I am denying that there is a problem. Even though it's not likely to become an issue, I would advocate being proactive in taking care of yourself. We are no good to our babies if we are a complete physical and emotional wreck!

Thanks for listening and the best of wishes for healthy, beautiful babies!

[Stephanieford78]

I have seen forms of PPD. One kind I see a lot is how the mother will not want to hold the baby, feed the baby, change the baby. For some reaason she didn't get that immediate bond and is thereafer fighting the bonding off like it would hurt her in some way. When these mother's aren't corrected and people are there to simply step in and take that role instead of helping her, she remains in that unbonded place. So when the help leaves, goes away and it's just her and the baby, imagine what could happen. From neglect and abuse to even something worse. If you see this kind of behavior, don't throw it to the side and say, Oh well, she is just tired. It could be something much deeper.

Thanks for posting. This is a great topic. Maybe a few strong mom's can share their stories and how they overcame it and got help. Any Brook Sheilds out there?

[babyluv]

Thanks for posting this. I was reading in my twin book how women with multiples are at a higher risk for PPD due to increased hormones. I plan on getting some material on it and having my DH and mom read over it before the babies come. Hopefully it won't affect me, but it's better to be prepared.

[angelaezra]

Wondercat – I also want to thank you for posting this. This can be a big problem for some women and even worse if gone undiagnosed. When we are pregnant we have all of these hormones running crazy and when we deliver our body goes crazy once again. I really hope your friend starts to feel better and I am glad that she is finally able to get some help. Oh, and good luck on your upcoming FET. I just love the picture of you and your beautiful baby!

Angela

[vilchem]

I more additional zinc Natal postnatal depression, is improving but was seriously ill for several months some good, so bad that I was in a psychiatric unit for 6 weeks. The only advice I have is not ignored. If you feel that you are entitled Right Step prenatal vitamins then consult your doctor immediately.