Postpartum depression affects one in ten mothers, according to data from the Hospital Clínic Barcelona. This disorder impairs mothers’ mental health and their ability to interact with their children and manage their daily roles. Despite its high incidence, it often remains in the shadows, which is why it is not addressed with the seriousness it requires. Dr. Alba Roca, psychiatrist at the Perinatal Mental Health Unit of the Hospital Clínic, emphasizes the importance of talking openly and educating about postpartum depression.
According to Dr. Roca, this condition should be recognized as a serious complication of pregnancy and postpartum that can affect any mother, regardless of her medical history or social context. The expert also highlights the stigma associated with maternal illness, and points out that patients “face a triple stigma: that of mental health, that of mental health in women, and that of mental health in a mother.” This can discourage women from seeking help and receiving treatment. The doctor emphasizes the urgency of “destigmatizing” these disorders and promoting greater understanding and support for mothers during this critical stage.
This depression can begin during pregnancy. If we detect the symptoms then, we can activate mechanisms to prevent complications.
Dr. Susana Andrés, clinical psychologist at the Perinatal Mental Health Unit of Hospital Clínic Barcelona, works on identifying and treating postpartum depression. She highlights the importance of recognizing early signs and risk factors such as a history of depression and lack of social support, crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. “This depression can begin during pregnancy. If we detect symptoms at this stage, we can activate support mechanisms to prevent major complications after childbirth,” he emphasizes.
Both experts warn about the importance of differentiating between the so-called Baby blues and postpartum depression. “Approximately 80% of women experience the former. It lasts between 10 and 15 days and resolves spontaneously,” says Dr. Andrés. However, she warns that if these symptoms persist and intensify, it is crucial to seek professional help, as it could be postpartum depression.
Early recognition and continuous support were essential in overcoming postpartum depression
Diagnosis of postpartum depression is essential to ensure that mothers receive appropriate care and can begin their recovery. Unlike Baby blues, postpartum depression presents more intense and persistent symptoms, such as deep sadness, anxiety, fatigue, difficulties bonding with the baby, and worrying thoughts about harming oneself or the baby. The diagnostic process involves a careful evaluation of these symptoms, generally through questionnaires and clinical interviews adapted to the perinatal stage.
Carla, a former patient of the Clínic’s Perinatal Mental Health Unit, shares how the diagnosis and professional and family support were essential for her recovery. As she recalls, they were “fundamental in overcoming the challenges of postpartum depression.” Her experience highlights the need for an empathetic support system to assist mothers during and after pregnancy.
Depression not only affects the mother, it also has an impact on the baby. Therefore, treatment must consider both.
In Catalonia, significant advances have been implemented since 2018 with the introduction of protocols that evaluate maternal mental health during pregnancy and postpartum. Dr. Roca comments: “We have seen improvements in the detection and management of postpartum depression. However, the challenge remains to ensure that all women, regardless of their location or economic situation, have access to this essential care.” Furthermore, it specifies: “Depression not only affects mothers, but has a direct impact on the health of the baby. Therefore, treatment must consider both.”
The team at the Mother-Baby Day Hospital, part of the Clínic’s Perinatal Mental Health Unit, offers an environment where mothers receive intensive care while they are with their babies, facilitating their recovery and fostering a healthy relationship. This approach treats the symptoms of postpartum depression and strengthens the mother-baby bond, essential for the long-term well-being of both. The message is clear: talking openly about postpartum depression and ensuring universal access to mental health services are crucial steps toward an equal society where maternal health is prioritized and protected like any other medical condition.
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