When a woman gives birth, she goes through several physical, hormonal and emotional changes which can be seen reflected in the alteration of the mother’s state of mind that, in some occasions, trigger a depression. This can occur during the first two weeks after delivery or even during the first year of the baby’s life. On this occasion, Mary Castro, a psychologist at Clinica Ricardo Palma, gives us with more information on this topic.

Can postpartum depression affect the baby?

The answer is yes. The baby can be affected when the mother has difficulties to relate properly with him, because being emotionally unstable she will perceive that she is not good enough, complicating the care of her child to the point of avoiding it or refuse it.

What are its symptoms?

Some of the symptoms that can evidence that a woman suffers from postpartum depression are the following:

• Sleep disturbance
• Loss of appetite
• Trouble concentrating
• Social isolation
• Feelings of worthlessness or failure
• Changes in mood
• Crying

How long does it last?

According to recent research, there is no exact time to determine the duration of postpartum depression; however, it can last between 6 months or just over a year if properly treated.

Which is the treatment?

It is necessary to take a multidisciplinary treatment, this means that it must cover the fields of psychology and / or psychiatry, in addition to hormonal treatment if necessary.

Mary Castro
Psychologist at Clinica Ricardo Palma