Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a serious condition experienced by many women after they give birth. The symptoms of PPD usually begin within the first few weeks or months following delivery and can last up to one year. Signs include feelings of sadness, anxiety, exhaustion, loss of interest in activities, difficulty concentrating and sleeping. Some women may also experience intrusive thoughts or have difficulty bonding with their babies. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 11 to 20% of women who give birth each year have postpartum depression symptoms. Out of 4 million annual live births, approximately 600,000 women in the U.S. may possibly be diagnosed with PPD each year. If left untreated, PPD can become more severe and have lasting impacts on both mother and baby. Treatment for PPD includes therapy, medication, and lifestyle modifications such as increasing social support, getting enough sleep and exercise, finding time for self-care activities, and seeking out postpartum resources.

The symptoms of postpartum depression (PPD) typically begin within the first few weeks or months following delivery and can last up to one year. Common signs include feelings of sadness, anxiety, exhaustion, loss of interest in activities, difficulty concentrating and sleeping, changes in appetite, and feelings of worthlessness or guilt. Some women may also experience intrusive thoughts or have difficulty bonding with their babies. Secondary symptoms can include fibroid tumors, endometriosis, and certain types of cancer. If left untreated, PPD can become more severe and have lasting impacts on both mother and baby.

COMMON SYMPTOMS OF POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION

As a result of copper toxicity associated with postpartum depression in females, many of these physiological manifestations and emotional manifestations may be present. 

• Irregular menstrual cycles

• Painful menstrual cycles

• Fibroid tumors

• Adrenal fatigue

• Endometriosis

• Certain types of cancer

• Overwhelming sadness

• Inability to bond with baby

• Numbness, disconnectedness

• Heightened irritability, anger, and rage

• History of depression with hormonal changes
• Inability to cope with normal stress

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a serious condition that can manifest itself in different ways. The three most common types of Post Partum conditions are major depressive disorder, postpartum anxiety, and postpartum psychosis. Major depressive disorder is characterized by feelings of sadness and despair, difficulty concentrating and sleeping, low energy levels, loss of pleasure in activities, and/or feelings of worthlessness or guilt. Postpartum anxiety is characterized by feelings of fear and worry, difficulty sleeping, irritability, restlessness, trouble concentrating, and intrusive thoughts or panic attacks. Postpartum psychosis is the rarest form of PPD and is marked by severe mood swings, delusions, paranoia, and disorganized behavior.

The conventional treatment for postpartum depression (PPD) typically includes psychotherapy, antidepressant medications, or a combination of both. Psychotherapy sessions can be one-on-one, in groups, or done online with a therapist and involve talking through issues and finding strategies to cope with symptoms. Common psychotherapies used include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), problem-solving therapy, and family therapy. Antidepressant medications are used to manage PPD symptoms and can take up to 4 weeks to work. It is important that women talk to their doctor about the benefits and risks of taking prescribed antidepressants, as these medications can have side effects.

The orthomolecular understanding of postpartum depression (PPD) is that it may be caused by excess copper. During pregnancy, a woman’s copper levels will increase. In some cases, they can double. After childbirth, the copper levels in a typical woman will normalize naturally. At Mensah Medical, we see copper levels that do not normalize on their own in women who develop postpartum depression. Excess copper in the brain can alter the balance of dopamine and norepinephrine, two chemicals that regulate our moods.

Females who are copper toxic have poor copper detox mechanisms. For these women, copper levels rise with each pregnancy, and they do not come down. These copper-toxic women with poor copper detox mechanisms find themselves depressed after pregnancy and unable to recover, even years later. Some of these females move from postpartum depression to postpartum psychosis.  Women with postpartum depression after their first two children are at greater risk with subsequent pregnancies unless they receive proper treatment for their biochemical imbalance. 

At Mensah Medical, we believe copper must be carefully and slowly eliminated from the system. If copper is removed too quickly, it will cause a worsening of symptoms that can last for weeks at a time. Copper needs to be regulated in the system and not stripped as in traditional chelation methods. Through testing, Mensah Medical’s physicians determine your key biochemical imbalances and use compounded supplementation to restore these markers to their optimal level. By correcting imbalances of essential nutrients in the body, symptoms, and concerns are addressed at the root level. If you or a loved one is currently on an antidepressant and/or another psychiatric medication, Mensah Medical physicians will work to first restore your chemistry, rebuild your foundation, and then look to work with your physician to slowly decrease your medication.

It is vital to seek treatment early for postpartum depression (PPD). If you or a loved one have had a child and are feeling overwhelming sadness, an inability to bond with the baby, a general numbness and disconnectedness, and/or irritability, then contact Mensah Medical to schedule an appointment. Women with postpartum depression after their first two children are at greater risk with subsequent pregnancies unless they receive proper treatment for their biochemical imbalance.

Postpartum depression (PPD) can occur in the weeks or months after a woman gives birth and is thought to be caused by a combination of physical and  psychological factors. Physically, PPD may be triggered by hormonal changes associated with giving birth, lack of sleep, and illness. Hormone imbalances which lead to depression and anxiety, can also occur due to high levels of copper pushing the conversion of dopamine into norepinephrine. Psychologically, a history of prior depression or an anxiety disorder can be a risk factor for PPD as well as stress from adjusting to  new life as a parent.

There are a number of risk factors associated with postpartum depression (PPD). A woman’s age, history of depression or anxiety, past experience with pregnancy loss or trauma, poor social support network, financial worries, and unsupportive partner can all contribute to an increased risk of developing PPD. Women suspected of or diagnosed with postpartum depression may have a history of irregular and painful menstrual cycles. They may also have issues with adrenal fatigue. Individuals with copper toxicity and estrogen dominance often inadvertently complicate their condition with oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Additionally, certain hormonal changes during pregnancy may play a role in increasing the risk for PPD.

There are a number of risk factors associated with postpartum depression (PPD). A woman’s age, history of depression or anxiety, past experience with pregnancy loss or trauma, poor social support network, financial worries, and unsupportive partner can all contribute to an increased risk of developing PPD. Women suspected of or diagnosed with postpartum depression may have a history of irregular and painful menstrual cycles. They may also have issues with adrenal fatigue. Individuals with copper toxicity and estrogen dominance often inadvertently complicate their condition with oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Additionally, certain hormonal changes during pregnancy may play a role in increasing the risk for PPD.

Postpartum depression (PPD) can have a wide range of complications, both physical and mental. Physically, PPD can interfere with breastfeeding, cause fatigue and exhaustion, and lead to poor self-care. Mentally, PPD can impair relationships and social interaction. It can also lead to difficulty bonding with the baby and even guilt or thoughts of self-harm in more severe cases.

Postpartum depression (PPD) can be prevented and managed through a number of strategies. It is important to have a supportive social network that can provide emotional support during pregnancy and post-birth. Additionally, it is beneficial to attend regular prenatal visits and understand the physical, hormonal, and psychological changes that may occur during pregnancy. Receiving proper treatment for biochemical imbalances postpartum will also support your system as hormones regulate. Stress management techniques such as yoga, mindfulness practice, or counseling can also help reduce the risk of PPD. Finally, it is important for women to recognize the signs of PPD in themselves or their loved ones and seek timely medical attention if symptoms arise.

Postpartum depression (PPD) is typically diagnosed based on a combination of physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms. Physical symptoms can include fatigue and exhaustion, sleep problems, and change in appetite. Emotional symptoms can include sadness, feeling disconnected from one’s baby, feelings of guilt and worthlessness, or worry about the future. Behavioral signs can include difficulty bonding with the baby, withdrawal from activities previously enjoyed, or irritability. If PPD is suspected, it is important to seek help from a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

Lifestyle and home remedies can be beneficial for supporting emotional wellbeing when dealing with postpartum depression (PPD). It is important to take care of yourself by getting enough sleep, eating nutritious meals, and exercising regularly. Spending time in nature or doing something creative such as painting, can also help lift your spirits. Receiving help from family members or close friends can make a big difference in managing the condition. Additionally, talking to other mothers who have gone through PPD can provide useful tips and advice on how they effectively manage their symptoms.

Alternative or natural medicines for managing postpartum depression (PPD) symptoms may include acupuncture, yoga, and massage therapy. Acupuncture can help reduce anxiety and depression associated with PPD. Yoga can also be beneficial as it increases one’s physical strength and stamina as well as aiding stress management. Massage therapy is a great way to relax the body and unwind from stress. However, it is important to consult with your doctor before using any alternative medicines or natural remedies for PPD.

Prior to your first appointment at Mensah Medical, you will be required to complete a new patient intake form as well as a patient history form. These forms must be submitted to Mensah Medical before an appointment can be scheduled. For Outreach Clinic appointments, these forms must be submitted one week before the scheduled Outreach. For established patients, prior to your follow-up, you will be required to complete a progress report. This must be submitted via your Elation Passport at least 72 hours before the appointment.

At Mensah Medical, we run lab work and blood tests to confirm your bioindividual needs. If, during the appointment, the doctors deem it necessary, they may order additional testing such as a hair analysis, G.I. Map, SAM/SAH Methylation Profile, or others. Please do not submit independent labwork until you have consulted with the Mensah Medical clinical team. The physicians will create an individualized nutrient proticol to address each of the imbalances presented. Treatment and long-term monitoring will be facilitated by the nursing staff, Dr. Mensah, and Dr. Bowman. Formal follow-ups on an individual’s progression will be done every six months to ensure biochemical levels and symptoms are responding appropriately. As a patient, you will have easy and efficient access to our nurses and clinical team through an Elation Passport Portal.