There are many reasons that cause postpartum depression in mothers. But this is not a reason for you to stop breastfeeding. Remember that oxytocin, which is one of the hormones that is released while breastfeeding is a powerful antidepressant.
I know that a lot of mothers who have been experiencing postpartum depression have been recommended to stop breastfeeding. However, this practice will not stop them from experiencing postpartum depression, but only will make their postpartum depression worse.
Postpartum depression can occur at any time in the first year and may even extend even later. There are around 10-40 percent of women who are experiencing postpartum depression.
There are also a lot of reasons why you feel upset at this time. Many times, a mother would be depressed due to lack of support and increased life stresses such as a death in the family or friend, change in employment status, which could be yours or your partner's, a move or any other issues that you may have not dealt with in your life and when you become a mother, they resurface and you just don't know what to do and you feel so blue.
So try to get some counseling to find out what is bothering you from within. Remind yourself that you do have a lot of stress in caring for this baby. This is perfectly normal and there is nothing wrong with you.
By the way, I wanted to congratulate you for doing the best you can for your baby. Continue breastfeeding. It's the best mother's way to nourish a child.
Meditalk
PS. Send questions to Meditalk, c/o Sun.Star Davao, Granland Building, R. Castillo St., Davao City or email at dokfritz@yahoo.com.
