Postpartum depression (PPD) is a common problem affecting around 1 in 7 new mothers.

While postpartum depression is treatable with the right care, if left untreated, it can last for months or even years. 

Although there can be many potential causes of postpartum depression (such as hormonal fluctuations, blood loss, excessive stress, social isolation, feeling overwhelmed by responsibilities, etc), several dietary deficiencies have been linked to its symptoms.

Studies have shown that deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals can worsen the symptoms of PPD. 

The brain needs adequate amounts of nutrients to produce the neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin, that regulate mood.

Although medication and talk therapy are the most effective treatments for PPD, studies have shown that the following supplements may offer some benefit in treating depression during the postpartum period:

Vitamin D: Studies have shown that depression-related illnesses are often accompanied by impaired brain function and mood changes. The most common situation where this impairment is observed is after childbirth, due to reduced exposure to sunlight.

Iron: One of the complications associated with blood loss during delivery is that most mothers develop anemia, which is linked to PPD symptoms such as fatigue, mental fog, and irritability.

Calcium: Breast milk production requires a significant amount of calcium. Common symptoms of PPD, such as mood disturbances and fatigue, are associated with this deficiency.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA & DHA): Play a crucial role in maintaining brain health and alleviating the symptoms of PPD. Fish oil capsules can be used as a supplement.

Magnesium (Citrate or Glycinate): The stress of childbirth decreases magnesium stores. Optimal levels of magnesium promote resilience of the body and the brain, and help in reducing postnatal depression symptoms.

B-Vitamins (B6, B9, B12): Help in the production of the mood-balancing neurotransmitters. A deficiency in these can lead to anemia, nervous system problems, and mood changes associated with PPD.

Riboflavin (Vitamin B2): Helps reduce fatigue by promoting energy production and nerve function, helping to alleviate PPD symptoms.

Cobalamin (Vitamin B12): Plays a major role in brain function. Low level leads to susceptibility to developing depression in the postpartum period.

S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine (SAMe): Studies show that SAMe is effective in reducing the symptoms of psychological distress found in the postpartum period.

Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6): Beneficial in relieving symptoms of pre-menstrual tension or postnatal depression.

Non-supplement tips: 

These supplements will be most effective when combined with some exercise (such as walking), a nutritious diet, and adequate sleep.

It is important to use supplements and follow the dosage as advised by your physician, especially if you are breastfeeding.

Remember that everyone's physical and emotional experience after childbirth is different, so it's best to develop an individualized PPD treatment plan that involves supplement use, lifestyle modifications, and conventional treatment.

Here I am 38 weeks pregnant with my 4th baby, and 4 weeks post partum. I almost gave up hope on getting my “pre-pregnancy” stomach back until I started to wear my Belly Bandit Postpartum Luxe Belly Wrap! At first it didn’t fit me, and a few  days after my c-section I tried it again, and I loved how it made me feel sturdy and my midsection tight. It also helped with correcting my posture and making sure I wasn’t extending my stomach to a point where I would worsen by diastasis recti. I wore my Postpartum Luxe Belly Wrap every day, and would also wear my Mother Tucker Postpartum Compression Leggings with them. Everyone would tell me “you don’t even look like you just had a baby, let alone your FOURTH baby! What’s your secret?” I respond with a smile and a “thank you, it’s by Belly Bandit.” If you’ve been skeptical about postpartum belly wraps, do yourself a favor and at least try Belly Bandit. I promise you will not regret it!! I wish I knew about it when I had my first baby!!

Postpartum Depression has severe effects on new mothers and can be detrimental to their mental health if left untreated.

‘Therapy’ is a great treatment option alongside conventional treatment methods.

Different types of therapy have proven to be helpful and have shown significant improvement in the lives of those suffering from Postpartum Depression. Following are some therapies that can be considered:

Individual Psychotherapy- Individual Psychotherapy, also known as ‘talk therapy’, involves one-on-one sessions between the patient and their psychiatrist. This therapy helps the patient manage negative thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. Individual Psychotherapy is highly beneficial as an alternative treatment option for Postpartum Depression. It consists of three other therapies:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps patients identify negative behaviors and thought patterns.

Psychodynamic Therapy- Psychodynamic Therapy helps patients understand underlying or unconscious processes and past experiences to deal with current problems.

Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)- Interpersonal Therapy helps patients improve interpersonal relationships and communication skills and address grave issues in a safe setting.

Relationship Therapy- Relationship Therapy, also known as couples therapy or family therapy, focuses on resolving issues between couples or family members by encouraging them to have open and honest conversations. The goal of relationship therapy is to provide support and encouragement to the people involved in a conflict and foster an environment of trust, honesty, and most importantly, healthy communication. Relationship Therapy is quite helpful for couples affected by Postpartum Depression. It helps them identify the root cause of issues that arise in their relationship, encourages them to talk about their intimacy issues, and provides them with a support system.

Group Psychotherapy- Group Therapy, similar to Support Groups, involves a certified therapist and a group of individuals experiencing the same issue. It helps provide a sense of solidarity to the members of the group as each member shares their struggle stories. Group Therapy has proven to be helpful for couples going through problems in their relationship due to Postpartum Depression, as they get to learn from each other's experiences and also provide emotional support to each other.

Many other treatment options are available for Postpartum Depression that a patient could choose from according to their preference, comfort style, or needs. It would also be a good idea to try out a combination of therapies to see what works out best!

Studies have shown that psychotherapy is an effective treatment for postpartum depression.

Response to treatment and speed of recovery with a combination of medication and therapy is typically much better than either medication or therapy alone.

Types of therapy for postpartum depression include:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors to reduce emotional distress.

CBT helps mothers suffering from postpartum depression reduce anxiety by identifying the thoughts of hopelessness and overwhelm and changing them to positive and calming thoughts. This fosters the bonding between the mother and the baby.

Psychodynamic Psychotherapy: Psychodynamic Psychotherapy encourages the mother to explore her unconscious self, which helps the therapist recognize her unresolved conflicts stemming from the past.

It also helps the mother recognize how developmental patterns and defenses affect interactions, and responses to those around them in the present. Psychodynamic therapy draws a connection between the past and the present.

Psychodynamic psychotherapy helps mothers recognize the hidden feelings of guilt or shame and further understand the underlying issues.

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy: Dialectical Behavioral Therapy is a type of cognitive behavioral therapy that helps people manage intense emotions and improve interpersonal relationships.

It was originally used to treat people with borderline personality disorder (BPD) but has evolved to treat conditions like anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and much more.

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy is helpful for mothers suffering from Postpartum Depression as it helps in reducing self-destructive behaviors, stabilizes their mood swings, and encourages them to practice mindfulness.

Supportive Psychotherapy: Supportive Psychotherapy aims to help the patient by providing emotional support, active listening, and validation. The therapist provides reassurance and encouragement and suggests coping mechanisms to deal with difficult emotions or situations.

Supportive Psychotherapy is beneficial as a treatment option for Postpartum Depression as it can help a parent seek support for marital relationships and family issues. Mothers suffering from Postpartum Depression may feel heard and learn to cope with their problems.

Untreated postpartum depression can cause severe distress to mothers. It can interfere with attachment and bonding with the baby. Untreated postpartum depression can also lead to marital problems and career difficulties.

If symptoms are severe, medication is indicated as well as therapy, and you should seek a consultation with your psychiatrist.

I gave birth to TRIPLETS on July 31st (30 weeks pregnant) and started wearing the Postpartum Luxe Belly Wrap 5 days later, right after I left the hospital. It immediately felt amazing to have the compression and support. I started seeing changes very quickly - even my husband noticed right away! Now, at 33 days postpartum, I've lost 37 of the 50 lbs I gained during pregnancy, and feel back to my normal self. This band is amazing!

Pictured: 25 weeks pregnant, 12 days postpartum (in gray dress), and the last two photos were just taken yesterday (33 days postpartum).

Thanks,

40 weeks in and 10 days out! Second pregnancy using #BellyBandit and wouldn't trade it for anything!!! Such a relief feeling one sense of normalcy when adjusting to life with a sweet new baby.