Many women face periods of depression during pregnancy or within a year of giving birth, such depression is known as postpartum depression. Exact figures of women facing such depression are unknown, but depression is believed to be one of the most common pregnancy complications, whether experienced during or after. Postpartum depression is often not noticed and left untreated due to the many new feelings and body changes that occur during pregnancy.

A woman’s body faces hormonal changes after pregnancy, which can sometimes cause depression symptoms. Levels of estrogen and progesterone, two female hormones, dramatically increase during pregnancy. These levels quickly drop back down to normal pre-pregnancy levels only 24 hours after giving birth. These fast hormonal changes are thought to contribute to feelings of depression and mood swings much like the altered feelings women face before menstruation.

Although tiredness and sleeping trouble, intense emotions such as irritability and exaggerated reactions, and body weight changes, etc, are all regular occurrences during pregnancy, if these symptoms are over intense, they may be signs of depression.

There are many different variables that can contribute to postpartum depression. Lack of sleep due to having to deal with all that is included in caring for a new baby, and the resultant lack of strength. Feeling incapable and overwhelmed with another child. Changes in routine. Feeling unattractive and undesirable because of weight gained during pregnancy and bodily changes. All of these contribute to feelings of frustration and stress and can lead to depression.

Treatment for postpartum depression includes therapy sessions, medication and talk groups. Talk groups help bring together women who share the same problems, often talking about their feelings with others who they know are going through the same things is easier than sharing these feelings with their husbands or other family members. Nursing mothers should consult their doctor before taking medication of any kind.