How Is Postpartum Depression Diagnosed & Its Causes?

Postpartum Depression Diagnosis

In follow-up sessions, a doctor may screen for PPD. If you suspect that you or a loved one may be suffering from PPD, consult your doctor about screening for a diagnosis and treatment options. Screening tools such as the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and the Postpartum Depression Screening Scale can assist in identifying the severity of symptoms and point you in the right direction for therapy. A therapist may be able to identify PPD as well. If you already see a therapist, they may observe changes in your mood or behavior after childbirth and label you as having a postpartum mood episode.

Causes

Although people go through major hormonal changes and fluctuations during and after pregnancy, these changes do not cause PPD on their own. There is no one cause of PPD, although many variables may increase an individual’s risk of getting these symptoms:

Genetics.

You are more likely to develop PPD if you have a family history of the disorder. Furthermore, a family history of sadness and/or anxiety (particularly maternal experience) raises the risk.

A history of mental health problems.

If you have previously had a depressive, manic, or psychotic episode, you may be more prone to experiencing these symptoms after childbirth.

A past miscarriage.

Of course, someone who has lost the desired pregnancy would be saddened by their loss. Furthermore, research has indicated that women who have had a stillbirth or late-term loss are more likely to develop PPD after having another pregnancy.

There is no one cause of PPD, and people who do not have these risk factors can develop symptoms. There is no age limit for seeking help if you are struggling or observe that a loved one is struggling.

Credits: Verywell Mind

Also Read: Know What Is Postpartum Depression & Its Symptoms