How Can Breastfeeding Help In Postpartum Depression
According to MayoClinic.com, “Research shows that infants of depressed mothers are at increased risk of behavioral problems, emotional difficulties, and delays in growth and language development.”
The good news is breastfeeding has a protective effect for moms. Breastfeeding women are not only less likely to experience postpartum depression, but their depressive episodes are less severe. Additionally, the babies of breastfeeding women suffering from depression generally do better and suffer less, since they still enjoy skin to skin contact with mom as well as interacting with her due to the nursing relationship.
However, postpartum depression may not resolve on its own and need treatment. Below there are 3 suggestions for nursing mothers to treat postpartum depression.
Mom Needs to Exercise
20 to 30 minutes of exercise practiced three times a week or more is enough to start making a difference. The challenge lies in getting a depressed person to actually engage in exercise, so support is needed. Counseling with a good therapist can help, as well as family support to help the depressed mom follow through with exercise.
Omega 3 Fatty Acid Supplementation
Recent research shows promising results with Omega 3 fatty acid supplements for mothers suffering postpartum depression. This research points to a link between inflammation (which takes place during the final weeks of pregnancy) and depression. Since fish oil and other sources of Omega 3 fatty acids combat inflammation, they are often effective in preventing or treating depression. You can find inexpensive sources of mercury free fish oil in capsules, over the counter, but you’re encouraged to do your own research and check with your health care provider first. One source of information on this topic is medical researcher and breastfeeding expert Kathleen Kendall-Tackett.
Anti Depressant Medications
There are several factors to consider when deciding to take antidepressant medications, including the age of the baby and the severity of the depression. Even though some health care practitioners recommend weaning when prescribing antidepressant medication to moms, this is rarely needed. With careful monitoring of the mother’s dosage and the baby, medication can be used with good result. For more information on specific medications that are safe on breastfeeding moms, consult Thomas Hale’s book “Medications and Mother’s Milk”.
Breastfeeding has a protective effect on depression when nursing is going well, but if problems arise, especially if nursing is painful, this can place additional stress on the mom which can worsen the depression or trigger it in some moms. This is the reason why getting early breastfeeding help is so important. Also, sudden or early weaning can be very difficult for a woman since her hormones will go through abrupt changes, as well as causing stress on her baby. Weaning will also deprive mom of the beneficial hormones oxytocin and prolaction, the “feel happy” hormones. Another factor is health issues that may be triggered once the baby is weaned to formula, including increased fussiness, allergies and other issues. In conclusion, building your breastfeeding friendly support network is crucial to prevent and treat postpartum depression.
