Postpartum Depression and Alternative Medicine Treatments

Giving birth is one of the biggest events in life. It is a happy event full of excitement and promises of joyful moments to come. But sometimes the period following the birth of a child mothers go through feelings of sadness and even clinical depression that affect their normal functioning. The bond between mother and child is not developed and this leads to feelings of guilt and anxiety.

What causes Postpartum Depression?

The common causes of postpartum depression are a combination of:

Hormonal changes
History of depression
Marital problems
Financial concerns
Complication during pregnancy or birth
Lack of sleep
Feeling overwhelmed by all the new responsibilities and changes
Feeling a loss of identity

How can Alternative Medicine Help?

Relaxation Techniques

Meditation, yoga and deep breathing exercises are some of the relaxation techniques that been shown to reduce anxiety and clear the mind. You can join a class or make use of a CD.

Biochemical Tissue Salts

These are salts that are naturally found in the human body. They can be used as postnatal depression alternative treatments they prevent severe mood swings and regulate sleep patterns.

Homeopatic Remedies

Homeopathic remedies that have been proven not to harm their babies while lactating such as Flower Essences they are gentle but very effective. Herbal Remedies to ease postpartum depression symptoms are:

Ignatia amara
Sepia
Damiana (Turnera diffusa)
Ginseng (Panax ginseng)
Lady's Slipper (Cypripedium calceolus)
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
Oats (Avena sativa)
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum)
Vervain (Verbena officinalis).

WARNING: Women who are breastfeeding or are suffering from a chronic medical condition should consult a health care professional before taking any herbal remedies.

Also it is always a good practice to not alienate yourself, talk to others and seek help. There is a great group called Postpartum Support International. They offer contacts, classes and resources for moms and the whole family.