Post Partum question......

I have always pondered....  What actually causes post partum depression?  If you know, please feel free to let me know.

Misty

[luckiemomoftoo]

After pregnancy, hormonal changes in a woman's body may trigger symptoms of depression. During pregnancy, the amount of two female hormones, estrogen and progesterone, in a woman's body increases greatly. In the first 24 hours after childbirth, the amount of these hormones rapidly drops back down to their normal non-pregnant levels. Researchers think the fast change in hormone levels may lead to depression, just as smaller changes in hormones can affect a woman's moods before she gets her menstrual period.

Occasionally, levels of thyroid hormones may also drop after giving birth.  that helps to regulate your metabolism (how your body uses and stores energy from food). Low thyroid levels can cause symptoms of depression including depressed mood, decreased interest in things, irritability, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, sleep problems, and weight gain. A simple blood test can tell if this condition is causing a woman's depression. I had it really bad with my daughter.

[Michele, Katy, TX]

I couldn't have said it better myself.  I always get it after giving birth.  I hate it, but since I know that I will get it, I leave the hospital w/ a prescription in hand for an anti-depressant.

[luckiemomoftoo]

Dont feel bad I take Effxor 75mg and 2 years later I am still on it. I wish I would have known before I had her. I had it with my son but not that bad. With her I was almost admitted to the 2nd floor. I work there so I was like hell no! It's gotta be the worst feeling ever!

[treazzure007]

Hormones stirring crazy, FATIGUE,  and the need of a wonderful clone of you to come and take over everything while you rest your body, mind, and spirit indefinately