During and after birth there are yet more changes to the hormones of the new mum. While a woman may feel elated it is actually very common to feel a little sad, overwhelmed, anxious, upset, afraid or even unloved. These are the hormones re-adjusting and these baby blues usually peak at about 3-5 days after delivery and should dissipate of their own accord within two weeks.
If the mood does not lift and she is unable to feel joy, remains in a low mood or tearful she then may have post-partum depression (PPT). A woman does not need any history of depression or mental health issues to have PPT. It is important to have this determined by a physician especially is she is having any dark thoughts about herself or her baby.
In either baby blues or PPT acupuncture may offer some assistance. Acupuncture has been shown to affect the brain, releasing endorphins and mediating the hormones. Acupuncture can be used alone or in combination with conventional methods in order to reduce side effects or enhance the effectiveness of certain medications. A study done in 2014 found acupuncture plus psychological intervention to be as effective as fluoextene hydrochloride (Prozac) for the treatment in of post-partum depression.
If you or a loved one is struggling with low mood or have been diagnosed with depression and are looking for a supportive therapy to work in conjunction with mainstream treatments acupuncture may work for you. Book an acupuncture appointment with either Sally or Heidi BOOK NOW
References : Huang H, Peng L, Zheng L, Wang L. Observation on therapeutic effects of acupuncture plus psychological intervention for postpartum depression. Journal of Acupuncture and Tuina Science 2014; 12(6): 358-361.