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Postpartum Depression
A Certified Doula Answers Common Questions About Postpartum Depression
By Kelly Camden, Certified Doula
There are some things that may help to decrease feelings of depression. They include good nutrition, including essential fatty acids, using a doula for labor support, using a postpartum doula or someone else to assist you when you're at home, breastfeeding, exercise and regularly taking time away from your baby.
Studies show that DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid, can lower the risk of depression. DHA is not produced by the body and must be obtained through diet or supplements. For optimal health, 300 mg of DHA is recommended. Purified fish oil is a healthy source of both EPA and DHA that can be taken during pregnancy as a preventive measure.
Alternative therapies, such as yoga, acupuncture, herbs and homeopathy offer support for depression. However, it is recommended that you consult with a primary care provider as well. Interpersonal Psychotherapy, which deals with specific life issues, can be an effective treatment.
Some treatment options include counseling, increasing family/social support, taking medications such as hormone therapy, thyroid supplements, antidepressants or anti-anxiety prescriptions and nutritional assessment.
It is very important to find practitioners who have experience and success in working with women during postpartum, so that they will have an understanding of what you are experiencing and what will help you to feel better.
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