What is Post-Partum Depression? As much love as new parents have for their baby, this phenomena is a common occurrence, affecting up to 25% of new mothers and women who have had miscarriages. Chemical changes in the mother’s body develop upon delivery, and frequently induce a state full of mood shifts. Though this overflow of emotions is common, this phase affects everyone differently, which explains the invention of the Edinburgh postnatal depression scale (a standardized self-reported questionnaire). While many women only experience mild symptoms, if they reach 13+ on the scale, they’ve shifted into the realm of postpartum depression, which can become lasting condition. What Causes It? Physical Adjustment – rapidly fluctuating hormones (estrogen and progesterone) typically leave new mothers feeling sluggish or fatigued. Emotional Components – emotions are greatly affected by both the duration and quality of sleep in addition to the new stress that a new baby brings. Lifestyle – new mothers are forced to juggle this new bundle of joy with the other factors of their previous life, which is often a daunting and exhausting task. Genetics – just like people can be predisposed to typical depression symptoms, PPD works the same way. Health Level – it is sometimes believed that a lack of nutrients and antioxidants in the body could in fact lead to a high chance of developing PPD. While there is no one understood cause of PPD, there are many factors which have been shown to heighten the risk of postpartum depression: Birth-related psychological/physiological trauma, high levels of prolactin, lack of oxytocin, habitual smoking, unplanned pregnancy, marital issues & insufficient support can all play a role. Do I Have It? Symptoms of PPD can include but are not limited to: sadness, fatigue, heightened moodiness, anxiety, angry outbursts, mood swings, trouble sleeping and decreased libido, guilt, and episodes of crying. Although mothers might not initially recognize their change in mood, it is typically recognizable after it develops into depression. How Acupuncture Can Help Studies revolving around acupuncture have commonly resulted in success when addressing a variety of emotional symptoms. As a safe and drug-free treatment, acupuncture works to combat post-partum depression by returning the body to its ideal balance of energy, triggering enhanced blood flow, healing response in the brain chemistry & release of specific neurotransmitters like endorphins. Acupuncture results in various observable changes in mothers such as solved issues with breastfeeding, fatigue, hemorrhoids, healing from a C-section, urinary incontinence and of course treating postpartum depression. While continued acupuncture can treat postpartum depression upon diagnosis, it can also act as a preventative method. By regularly receiving treatment, expecting mothers can prepare the body for delivery and get it working at its optimum level to prevent problems before they begin. Call Today For An Appointment: (561) 459-0528