By Priscilla Oye Ofori
Accra, May 15, GNA- Ms Belinda Addi, Midwife, Joma Health Centre, Ga West District, has advised pregnant women to confide in their midwives and doctors, even on issues that trouble them.
She said that was the first step in preventing Post Partum Depression (PPD).
In an interview with the Ghana News Agency in Accra, Miss Addi said the midwives and doctors at the Antenatal Care (ANC) appointments were ready to provide all forms of support to pregnant women.
Post Partum Depression also known as Post Partum Blues is a serious mental health condition that affects behaviour and physical health of Post Partum mothers
Miss Addi said the birth of a baby could start with a variety of emotions from joy and excitement to fear and anxiety.
She said however, it could also result in the unexpected; depression.
According to the Midwife, Post Partem Blues affects up to 15 per cent of women.
Miss Addi said depression could start during pregnancy and linger after childbirth.
She advised new mothers to always stay connected with family and friends and have enough sleep and rest.
The Midwife cautioned that if PPD was left untreated, it could lead to future episodes of major depression.
She said women with a history of depression, Bipolar disorder and PPD, baby’s health problems, past stressful events, weak support system and unplanned / unwanted pregnancy were at risk of PPD.
Miss Addi said PPD could be hereditary (family history), caused by fatigue and anxiety from sudden drop in estrogen and progesterone after birth, sleep deprivation and overwhelming maternal responsibilities.
The Midwife said some symptoms of PPDs were crying spells, loss of appetite, neglecting baby, suicidal tendencies, trouble sleeping, attempts to self-harm or harm baby and difficulty in focusing.
She said studies had shown that new fathers also experienced post pastum depression when they feel overwhelmed, tired about the changes of being a father and related responsibilities.
“People with depression may not recognise or admit it, so the involvement of a support person during and after birth will go a long way in reducing the risk of Post Partum Depression.” Ms Addi added.
GNA
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