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can be done if the woman doesn't acknowledge a problem exists. Any woman who has just had a baby needs to recognize that she may have a mild case of "baby blues" after delivery. All the guests have gone home, the husband had returned to his normal work schedule, and the other kids at home have (finally) calmed down. Mom is expected to be doing well by this time, and it is also assumed that she is coping well on her own. But what if she's not?

Unless a severe problem develops, time is a big help. Most women with postpartum blues start to perk-up after two or three weeks. The biggest thing that would help is the love and support of your husband. If he understands what is going on, he'll be in a better position to be supportive. But what if the irritability, the sleeplessness, and the mood swings become more pronounced? Then the possibility exists that postpartum depression may be setting in. The best advice is to see your health care provider. She will ask you all kinds of questions, and then do a physical exam. She may order lab work. Keep in mind that the thyroid gland, located in the front of your neck, may poop-out temporarily after childbirth. Since the thyroid regulates your metabolism, less-than-normal amounts of thyroid hormone in your system can cause some of the same symptoms that women with postpartum blues and postpartum depression are experiencing. So don't be surprised if your clinician asks questions about your thyroid or orders thyroid tests. If your levels of thyroid hormone are low, you may be given a thyroid supplement until your thyroid is up-to-par again.

Suppose your health care provider makes a diagnosis of postpartum depression? Postpartum depression is treated just like any other significant depression. Counseling and short-term use of antidepressants is all that is usually needed. Some antidepressants can be prescribed if you are breast feeding; just be sure to let your clinician know that you are breast feeding. As mentioned before, postpartum psychosis is the most severe postpartum mood disorder. Hospitalization, medication, and psychiatric evaluation are needed to protect the baby and to help the mother adjust to her maternal role.

Since early postpartum hospital discharge is becoming more common, postpartum mood disorders may go unrecognized by the hospital staff. It is important to talk to your health care provider during your baby's well-child exams, as well as during your postnatal check-up.

All new moms want to be the best moms that they can be; the best way to do this is by keeping in touch with your feelings.

Learn more about this author, Joe Knight.
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