Postpartum depression (PPD) is a medical condition that occurs after childbirth and is characterized by strong feelings of sadness, anxiety, and despair. Dr. Aisha Ali Issaka recently appeared on the Orange Health Lounge for an in-depth discussion into this disorder.
She explained that mood disorders can range from anxiety and depression to psychosis, with the most common being “baby blues.” Clarifying, she described baby blues as a mixture of feelings of inadequacy and lack of sleep that many mothers experience and is not typically depression.
The birth of a child is a significant and often overwhelming event,” so many mothers experience mixed emotions, sometimes bottling up these feelings instead of seeking help.
These overwhelming feelings and inadequacies typically occur within the first two weeks postpartum, disrupting the mother’s usual routine and potentially causing emotional or psychological issues.
Dr. Issaka emphasized that “baby blues” usually resolve within two weeks with proper support and should not be confused with depression. “Depression goes beyond the two-week period. The mother feels sad for no reason, feels like crying all the time, is unable to eat, feels a sense of guilt, and feels that she cannot care for the baby. It persists and affects her functioning as a human being,” she said.
In severe cases, it can lead to thoughts of self-harm or harming the baby. She pointed out that recognizing the signs of postpartum depression is crucial because, if detected early, symptoms can often be treated through depression management methods like psychotherapy or medication.
Dr. Issaka noted that approximately 80% of mothers experience baby blues, while 17% worldwide suffer from postpartum depression. In Ghana, however, the rate of postpartum depression is about 50%, primarily due to factors like unsupportive partners, domestic abuse, chronic illness, major life changes, financial difficulties, C-section deliveries, or the loss of a child.
The Orange Health Lounge, where these important issues are discussed, airs every Saturday at 8am. Tune in for more insightful discussions on health and well-being.
