What is Perinatal depression?
What do you think of when you hear the words pregnancy or childbirth? Of course, we think of things like blessings, miracles, and happiness first. But what about the minds and bodies of new mothers facing such a huge change?
For many expectant and postpartum individuals, the journey into motherhood is filled with excitement, happiness, and perhaps anxiety. Yet, for some, this period can be distressing. Pregnancy and the post-delivery phase mark a vulnerable time, during which mothers can experience biological, emotional, financial, and social changes. Some may find themselves at an increased risk of mental health issues, particularly depression and anxiety.
Did you know that a staggering 85% of all new mothers experience the “baby blues?” While most navigate through this phase as hormones stabilize and bodies recuperate, about 10% face severe conditions requiring intervention, posing risks for both mother and child.
Untreated perinatal depression isn’t solely a threat to individual well-being – it can also impact the baby’s health, potentially leading to premature birth or low birth weight. Additionally, it can hinder bonding with the baby and contribute to sleeping and feeding difficulties. In the long term, children of mothers with perinatal depression face higher risks of cognitive, emotional, and developmental issues, as well as social skill deficits (Field 2010; Brand & Brennan 2009).
How does Oriental medicine treat Perinatal depression?
Oriental medicine uniquely perceives the body and mine as interconnected. It suggests that physical weaknesses can manifest as mental issues and vice versa. Perinatal depression is viewed as a condition requiring attention to both mental and physical aspects. According to Oriental medicine, pregnancy and childbirth processes can lead to blood deficiency or stagnation, weakening heart function and triggering depression and anxiety.
While comprehending the viewpoint of Oriental medicine may seem daunting, numerous scientific studies support its efficacy. One such study examined the use of acupuncture among pregnant women. The study included 150 pregnant women diagnosed with major depressive disorder, who were randomly allocated to receive one of three treatment options: depression-specific acupuncture, massage therapy , or control acupuncture (which needles were inserted in points not known to help alleviate depressive symptoms). Results show that depression-specific acupuncture led to a greater reduction in symptoms compared to the other groups, demonstrating its effectiveness (Manber et al., 2010).
Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy and lactation?
Concerns about acupuncture safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding are common. However, research indicates that acupuncture is safe during pregnancy, with minimal adverse events reported. Out Of 105 included studies, total AE(adverse inform)s incidence was 1.3% and The problems were all mild, with the most common problem was pain during acupuncture treatment, and other things were bruising or swelling. There were no cases of causing problems to the fetus or child. (Park J et al., 2014)
Therefore, acupuncture emerges as a safe treatment option.
Do not worry!
Am I a bad mother for being depressed at this time when everyone is happy? Won’t my depression hurt my child?
No! It’s essential to recognize that experiencing depression during pregnancy and childbirth is natural. Seeking psychological support from family and considering acupuncture as a safe and effective treatment option can alleviate the burden and facilitate recovery.
In conclusion, perinatal depression is a significant concern but approaches like Oriental medicine, particularly acupuncture, offer promising avenues for treatment and support during this delicate phase. If you or someone you know is experiencing perinatal depression, don’t hesitate to reach out to our clinic for assistance and guidance in navigating this challenging journey.
References
Manber R, Schnyer RN, Lyell D, Chambers AS, Caughey AB, Druzin M, Carlyle E, Celio C, Gress JL, Huang MI, Kalista T, Martin-Okada R, Allen JJB. Acupuncture for depression during pregnancy: a randomized controlled trial. Obstet Gynecol. 2010 Mar;115(3):511-520. doi: 10.1097/AOG.0b013e3181cc0816. PMID: 20177281.
Park J, Sohn Y, White AR, Lee H. The safety of acupuncture during pregnancy: a systematic review. Acupunct Med. 2014 Jun;32(3):257-66. doi: 10.1136/acupmed-2013-010480. Epub 2014 Feb 19. PMID: 24554789; PMCID: PMC4112450.
DISCLAIMER – Link to the Whole Statement
While this blog offers helpful information, it’s not a substitute for medical advice. As individual’s health concerns are unique and require professional guidance, do not rely solely on online information for self-diagnosis or treatment. If you have health concerns, always consult a healthcare professional for personalized diagnosis and treatment.
