Right now it is unknown exactly why some postpartum women get mood disorders, but it is thought to be a combination of complex hormonal changes, emotional, environmental and genetic factors. Some postpartum mothers suffer from having intrusive thoughts that harm may come to their baby or that in some way they may be involved in harm coming to the baby. These thoughts probably feel very scary and most mothers will be afraid to tell anyone about them, but these thoughts can be alleviated greatly through therapy and medical intervention.

Understanding and learning techniques to stop intrusive thoughts can be extremely helpful, as can be getting understanding support from your spouse or others involved your baby’s care. Medications are available by prescription from a psychiatrist that can alleviate some of your mood or obsessive thoughts and symptoms, if that is needed, and studies have been done regarding which medications are the safest for breast-feeding moms.

There is a very rare type of postpartum problem that needs immediate attention… (continued)
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