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Postpartum Depression
For most new mothers, the first days after giving birth
can be like an emotional see-saw. The lack of sleep, new
responsibilities and general anxiety about whether you'll
measure up to the daunting parenting task that lies ahead
can take a psychic toll. So most women can feel elated
one minute and down in the dumps — the "baby
blues" — the next.
For some, however, that "down" feeling —
postpartum depression — is longer and deeper. And
it needs prompt medical attention.
Eastern thinking has always maintained that a woman should
take special care of herself during pregnancy, labor and
after childbirth. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine offer
natural relief for post-partum depression.
What's Wrong With Me? Why Am I So
Depressed?
Childbirth takes a huge amount of energy, and after birth,
there is a rapid change in body chemistry. It is not
uncommon to feel overwhelmed and anxious about the
many responsibilities of having a newborn. As a new mother,
you may have experienced postpartum blues, or baby blues,
characterized by mild sadness, anxiety, irritability,
fluctuating moods, and fatigue.
For some women, however, these feelings escalate and
go beyond the first few days. They can even appear several
months after giving birth. This may be full-fledged postpartum
depression, in which the feelings of sadness, anxiety,
or despair are so intense that the new mother has trouble
coping with her daily  tasks.
At The Berkley Center for Reproductive Wellness &
Women’s Health, we understand. We see repeatedly
that by integrating acupuncture, herbal medicine, massage
and yoga, this horrible depression often lifts and is
replaced by a state-of-bliss. We are here for you!
You are not alone. It is estimated that 70 to 80 percent
of new mothers have such feelings at times. While there
is no single clearly defined cause of postpartum depression,
both physical and emotional factors seem to be involved.
It is comforting to know that postpartum depression has
been found to be both temporary and treatable and, at
The Berkley Center, without drugs.
Tips for Coping With
Postpartum Depression
- Talk to someone about your feelings, particularly
other mothers.
- Ask others to help you with child care, household
chores, and errands. Ask your husband to share in nighttime
feeding duties and household chores.
- Find time to do something positive for yourself, even
if it is for only 15 minutes a day. Try reading, taking
a walk, taking a relaxing bath.
- Even if you can get only one thing done in any given
day, this is a step in the right direction. There may
be days when you cannot get anything done. Try not to
be angry with yourself when this happens.
- Isolation often perpetuates depression. Get dressed,
and leave the house for at least a short while each
day. Fresh air and a change of scenery will do you and
your baby a lot of good.
These modalities work well together to reduce depression,
decrease stress and relax your spirit. You will obtain
a new brighter outlook and begin to feel better almost
immediately.
- Acupuncture - First visit: $250.00. Follow up visits
$125.00 (Ask about our cost savings plan)
- Herbal medicine - Priced per prescription
- Nutritional counseling. First visit: $250.00 (Various
Programs Available Geared To Fit Your Individual Needs
and Life-Style. Programs will be discussed at your first
visit).
- Yoga - Private one-on-one classes: $90.00 per hour
(Get 10 sessions for $750.00)
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Semi private classes: 2-3 people $60.00 per person
Reclaim your inner peace now. 212-685-0985.
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