One of the most exciting experiences in life is welcoming a new bundle of joy into the world. Starting a new chapter with your family is full of exciting moments. However, many life changes are involved with welcoming your little one and adjusting to this new life. The journey can be overwhelming, but with all the joy comes a big, unpredictable challenge: PPD or postpartum depression, which many new moms find themselves dealing with. This condition can affect as many as 15% of all new mothers and can put a damper on what should be one of the happiest times in life.
What is Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum depression is more than just having the blues after childbirth, it is a mental health condition that affects a new mom’s well-being. Symptoms can range from extreme sadness to a loss of usual interest in daily activities, changes in appetite or sleep, and even thoughts of suicide. Unlike the “baby blues,” which generally disappear after a couple of weeks, PPD may be ongoing and affect the mother’s daily life. Studies show that as many as 1 in every 7 new mothers experience PPD, and it can start at any time during pregnancy, although symptoms usually appear during the first six weeks.
Finding Treatment
Luckily, there are many different types of treatment available for postpartum depression. Traditional treatments include antidepressant medications and several forms of therapy. However, recently, ketamine therapy has been used to help treat PPD with promising results. A new study published in The BMJ has shown that a single low dose of ketamine treatment just after childbirth can significantly lower the risk of major depressive episodes in new mothers with prenatal depression by about 75%. Ketamine’s rapid onset and impactful effects make it a promising tool in managing postpartum depression and mental health conditions.
Contact JoyDeVie Infusions
If you or your loved one is struggling with postpartum depression, it is important to talk to your doctor and seek out treatment. Remember, you are not alone on this journey. Our team is here to help find the best treatment option for you and get you back to enjoying life with your new family. Contact us today!