05/03/2023
New mothers commonly experience various emotions, including joy, anxiety, and exhaustion. However, some women may experience more significant mental health challenges, such as postpartum depression (PPD), postpartum anxiety, or postpartum psychosis.
PPD is a common condition that affects around 1 in 7 women who give birth. It is characterized by persistent sadness, hopelessness, worthlessness, fatigue, changes in appetite and sleep, and difficulty bonding with the baby.
Postpartum anxiety is another common condition that can include excessive worrying, restlessness, and panic attacks.
Postpartum psychosis is a rare but severe condition that can occur within the first few weeks after giving birth. Hallucinations, delusions, and extreme mood swings characterize it. Women who experience postpartum psychosis require immediate medical attention.
New mothers must know the signs and symptoms of postpartum mental health challenges and seek help if needed.
Pelvic floor physical therapists are in a unique position to scan and refer the postpartum patient to proper care due to the frequency of the treatment, sometimes seeing the patient twice or 3x a week.
When designing a treatment plan to help new moms recover from giving birth, it is essential to include interventions to balance the nervous system, aiming for more general results like decreased fatigue and excitation of the nervous system to support digestion, lactation, bonding (social engagement), and rest.
Schedule your visit today to experience a somatic approach to pelvic floor physical therapy.
Mind and body integrated to promote health. 😊
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