Dépression post-partum : comprendre, reconnaître et traiter

Understanding and treating postpartum depression

Written by: Marie Agopian

Published on September 24, 2023

Last updated on January 27, 2025

Time to read 4 min

The arrival of a new baby into a family is often celebrated as one of the happiest moments in life. However, for many women, the period following childbirth can be a confusing and emotionally intense experience, marked by profound physiological and psychological changes. Among the challenges that some mothers face is postpartum depression. Positioned as one of the most common complications of childbirth, it is a condition that should not be taken lightly.

Key Points of Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression is not a separate diagnosis. In fact, it is a specific type of depressive disorder . It is characterized by symptoms that meet the criteria for depression and persist for more than two weeks after childbirth. This condition, considered disabling, affects 10 to 15% of women. Fortunately, it is treatable.

What causes postpartum depression?

The pathophysiological mechanisms responsible for postpartum depression remain poorly understood to this day. In other words, the true cause of this disease remains a mystery . However, there is evidence that biological factors, such as hormonal, genetic and immune factors, may play a role in this process. For example, a history of depression, hormonal changes during the puerperium ( the period following birth), sleep deprivation or even a genetic predisposition may contribute to postpartum depression.

Other elements are also considered risk factors . These include a history of depression, significant stress factors, a lack of family or marital support, etc.

What are the differences between postpartum depression and baby blues?

Although the baby blues and postpartum depression are often confused, it is important to understand that they are two very distinct disorders. There are two main things that differentiate them:

Duration. The "baby blues" is a common emotional reaction that usually occurs during the first week after birth. These transient depressive symptoms last on average 2 to 3 days (and maximum two weeks). Conversely, postpartum depression persists beyond two weeks.
Severity. Baby blues is considered a moderately severe condition, with symptoms including anxiety, irritability, decreased concentration, and insomnia. These symptoms usually disappear spontaneously, without the need for treatment. Postpartum depression, on the other hand, is a more serious and long-lasting condition, significantly disrupting the mother's daily activities. It is considered disabling.

Distinguishing between these two emotional states is essential to obtaining appropriate support and guidance.

How does postpartum depression manifest?

Postpartum depression is manifested by a series of symptoms that can profoundly alter the daily life of women after childbirth. The main symptoms can be:

A persistent depressed mood .
A loss of interest or pleasure .
Anxiety that can lead to panic attacks.
A feeling of worthlessness or guilt . Intrusive thoughts such as feeling unable to care for the child or not being a good mother may set in.
A decrease in the ability to concentrate .
Suicidal thoughts .
Mood fluctuations .
Sleep disturbances resulting in insomnia or hypersomnia .
Appetite disorders that can lead to significant weight loss or, conversely, weight gain associated with overeating.
Psychomotor agitation or slowing down .
Uncontrollable crying fits .
Extreme fatigue .
Headaches (cephalgia ) .
Muscle aches or pains .
Unrealistic anxieties about the baby , or, conversely, total disinterest.
Irritability and feelings of anger.

These symptoms are actually similar to those of depression unrelated to childbirth. Their severity can vary from one person to another. Far from being harmless, postpartum depression can cause problems for the mother, the child, but also for the entire family.

Understanding and Treating Postpartum Depression

How to get out of it?

Appropriate management of postpartum depression is essential to promote the recovery of affected women . The treatment to be considered depends on the severity of the symptoms, and it may sometimes require a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach. Without treatment, postpartum depression may resolve spontaneously in some women, but it can also develop into a chronic form, with an increased risk of recurrence .

Drug treatments

Treatments for postpartum depression vary depending on each case. They may include the use of antidepressants , especially when depression is severe or resistant to other approaches. Other medications such as anxiolytics can help reduce anxiety associated with postpartum depression. However, it is important to note that taking medication is never harmless , and can be associated with risks of dependence and side effects. Therefore, the decision to use medication should be made after a careful evaluation by a healthcare professional.

Psychotherapies

Psychotherapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or interpersonal therapy (IPT), have also been shown to be effective in treating postpartum depression and the anxiety that often accompanies it. It is strongly recommended to consult a healthcare professional to determine the type of psychotherapy that is best for each situation .

Natural treatments

Along with medical and psychotherapeutic treatments, it is important for women with postpartum depression to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This may include eating a balanced diet, getting regular physical activity , managing sleep, or using stress management strategies. For example, studies have shown that moderate aerobic exercise can help reduce symptoms of postpartum depression. Behavioral interventions aimed at improving infant sleep may also have a positive impact on the mother's mood . At the same time, being kind to oneself and seeking support from couples and family can also play a vital role in recovery.

Regarding stress management , several areas may be relevant to explore, such as:

Relaxation techniques.
Natural food supplements to reduce stress and anxiety.

Regardless of the treatment, early detection of postpartum depression is fundamental to allow for rapid and effective intervention. It is therefore recommended to identify symptoms as soon as they appear in order to start treatment as early as possible .

In summary, postpartum depression is a complex and disabling condition that can be responsible for many symptoms. Its management requires a personalized approach and ongoing support to help women regain their emotional well-being and their ability to care for themselves and their child.