San Antonio OBGYN Mallory Thompson MD discusses postpartum mental health
Dr. Mallory Thompson wants to help patients understand how the postpartum period, also known as the fourth trimester, affects both mothers and babies. Women receive a lot of information about preparing for the birth and care of their new baby. However, they don’t always know enough about postpartum mental health.
“As new parents, we have a tendency to focus on our newborn at the expense of our own health. It is important to find time to focus on our health as well as our newborn. Postpartum mood disorders, such as postpartum depression and anxiety, can affect both patient safety as well as the bonding, development and growth of the baby,” Dr. Thompson explains.
Dr. Thompson explains the difference between “baby blues” and postpartum depression
Most patients have heard about the “baby blues.” These feelings include fatigue, feeling down or sad, and some tearfulness. These postpartum blues usually only last for a few days, coming and going throughout the day with mild symptoms that are not persistent. Women with postpartum depression have more severe symptoms that can last from a few weeks to a year.
- Feeling down, depressed or irritable.
- Loss of interest in activities.
- Feelings of worthlessness.
- Loss of appetite.
- Sleep issues, including trouble sleeping or constant sleeping or tiredness.
- In severe cases, women may have thoughts of harming themselves or others.
OBGYN Mallory Thompson helps with postpartum mental health issues
Patients shouldn’t ignore postpartum depression or anxiety issues. Treatment includes support groups, counseling and medication. Dr. Mallory Thompson wants women to know they are not alone.
“Mental health disorders can be very isolating even without hormone swings, sleep loss and the major life changes that come with a new baby. Reaching out to friends, family or your doctor are all ways to connect and discuss your symptoms. We can help find other people who are going through the same things or have been where you are and can relate. Lastly, it is important to know that these feelings are temporary, and it does get better.”
Contact us for an appointment with Dr. Mallory Thompson.