Postpartum Anxiety: How to Treat Postpartum Anxiety?

Postpartum anxiety is a condition that is less talked about. Mothers suffer from a period of excessive anxiety after delivery. It is a feeling of panic or constant worry. Although these signs are normal in the first 2 weeks after childbirth. The mothers' family members must be aware of it and recognise it promptly. This article aims to help educate people about this condition and its symptoms.

What is postpartum anxiety?

It is a severe form of anxiety after having a baby or becoming a parent. Such feelings can prove to be overwhelming. It is natural to feel anxious about welcoming a baby. Postpartum anxiety worries parents day and night for no particular reason because they overthink about events that are likely to occur. A past negative event can also act as a triggering agent. The symptoms of postpartum anxiety coincide with those of postpartum depression. Therefore, it is important to identify and treat this condition.

What are the symptoms of postpartum anxiety?

Anxiety is the body's way of preparing for dangerous situations.

Common physical symptoms:

• Sleeping difficulties
• Increased heart rate
• Nausea and stomach ache
• Feeling breathless
• Loss of hunger
• Muscular pain
• Restlessness

Behavioural symptoms

• Being a control freak
• Avoiding certain situations or people
• Checking the same things repeatedly
• Having an OCD

Emotional symptoms

• Cannot keep calm
• Irritable
• Overthinking
• Forgetful
• Scared all the time
• Constantly negative

What are the causes of postpartum anxiety?

The causes of postpartum anxiety include the following:

• A sudden shift in hormonal levels
• Lack of sleep
• A sudden feeling of responsibility
• A difficult pregnancy or a stressful event
• Previous history of anxiety or depression

How to treat postpartum anxiety?

Here are some common ways to treat postpartum anxiety:

Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT)

This therapy identifies how a person's behaviour patterns change. It helps in developing healthier thinking patterns. A trained behavioural therapist conducts it.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is a method of using essential oils to calm the emotional centre of the brain. It is effective for anxiety relief.

Antidepressant medications

Antidepressant medications (SSRIs) are commonly used. It works by increasing brain chemicals that stabilise the mood.

Anti-anxiety medications

Antianxiety medications such as benzodiazepines are useful in reducing postpartum anxiety by increasing the effects of certain neurotransmitters.

What medications are used for postpartum anxiety?

Breastfeeding mothers should talk to the doctor before taking the medicines. These medicines can be transferred to the baby through breast milk. However, most antidepressants are considered safe today due to lower transfer levels.

Some common medications given are:

• SSRIs
• SNRIs
• Bupropion
• Tricyclic antidepressants

Non-medicated treatment for postpartum anxiety

• Find support groups where people with similar situations share their experiences.
• Ask for help from family or friends.
• Try to get some form of exercise every day. This can even be done by strolling the baby inside the house.
• Eat healthily and get plenty of sleep. Sleep while the baby is asleep.
• It takes at least a month for the medicine to start working. These medicines should not be stopped abruptly. If PPD is seen, the doctor shall start IV medication with Brexanolone.

What is the difference between postpartum anxiety and postpartum depression?

Both these conditions have very similar patterns. It is still possible to differentiate one from another. PPD is a serious mental illness. It interferes with the person's ability to function day to day. It is normal to feel anxious the first 2 weeks after childbirth. If this lasts over 2 weeks, then it needs to be reported. PPD can last from a few weeks to months. Psychotherapy is necessary to manage postpartum depression. Hobbies, yoga, and breathing exercises can help with postpartum anxiety.

Can postpartum anxiety come back?

Yes, it can relapse. These anxieties can re-surface at any point. If left untreated, they can progress to postpartum depression.

When should the doctor be called for help?

When these specific signs are triggered, such as:

• Difficulty bonding with the baby.
• Worry all day and all night.
• Signs of depression.
• Thoughts getting more negative.
• Thoughts about self-harm or the baby

Adjusting to a changed lifestyle after birthing a baby can be challenging. A little worrying and anxiety are normal. For some, this becomes so extreme that it interferes with their daily activities. That's when they should seek help.

To find help for postpartum anxiety and depression, you can check Mylo Postpartum Care Plan that takes care of the new mother's needs and holistic well-being. It can help you with postpartum anxiety and depression, recovery, increased breast milk secretion, weight loss, improved gut health and constipation relief.

Closing Thoughts

In conclusion, postpartum anxiety is a common condition that affects many new mothers. It can be overwhelming and can interfere with daily activities and the ability to care for a newborn. However, there are effective treatments available, including therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. Seeking help from a healthcare professional is important in managing postpartum anxiety and improving overall well-being. Remember, taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your baby.