Book Your Session

Postpartum is NOT Synonymous with Depression

4th trimester depression mercier postpartum Mar 15, 2022

Postpartum is not synonymous with depression.

I hear these terms confused all the time online. 

One is a universal experience after having a baby, the other is not.

Postpartum is both a state and a time period that ALL women experience after birth. 

It is a normal, physiological, inescapable part of birthing a baby. The immediate postpartum, usually lasts 6 weeks, & is comprised of huge hormonal shifts, milk production, uterine involution (shrinking to pre-pregnancy size), healing, integrating and bonding with a new baby. 

Extended postpartum is 1-2 years, depending on the person and the type of birth she had. 

Some people say after having a baby, you’re forever postpartum, and I might agree.

Postpartum Depression, however, is not a universal experience, and may be at least partially due to a lack of support. 

Somewhere between 10-20% of mothers experience postpartum depression, which is comprised of a set of symptoms that may interfere with her ability to care for her baby and herself. 

This is distinct from the roughly 50% of new mothers who experience Baby Blues: mood swings, crying spells, and euphoria that last a few days to a couple of weeks after giving birth. 

Baby Blues are a normal and short-lived part of adjusting to the immensity of change that birth brings. Postpartum depression is more severe and long-lasting, and often requires professional support.

Planning and preparing to rest, eat nutrient and calorie dense meals, have help around the house, receive touch, and a loving and or professional ear to listen to your worries, birth story, or joys, may prevent or diminish depression being a part of your postpartum experience.

Please spread the word! xo!

 

Fertility Celebrations

Today I went to give a postpartum massage to one of my fertility clients, and to meet the sweet baby who is the result of our work together!

Meet baby Townsend & his beautiful Mama Aja! (Photo above)

I'm so thrilled to be a part of their journey. This photo just warms my heart.

If you'd like to learn more about how I can support you towards a healthy pregnancy & expanded family, click here to book a Mercier Therapy Consult. 

 

Available on our site. 

We offer discounted massage packages, including Birth Prep and Postpartum packages as well as Gift Certificates.

PURCHASE NOW

Get The Sparrow's Nest Guide To Motherhood!

We've curated our top 3 resources to support each phase of your motherhood journey from pre conception to postpartum! Check it out. It's free.

You'll Receive:

1) Castor Oil Pack Tutorial- to support you while trying to conceive

2) Video Tutorial for Pregnancy: "Get Quality Sleep & Wake-Up Pain-Free"

3) Postpartum Door Sign to Guide your visitors on how to truly support your family

We value your privacy & will never share your information