As we have discussed in numerous posts on this blog, complications during and after childbirth can have lasting effects. Texas residents may believe all birth injuries are physical. However, some pregnancy and birth complications can be emotional, yet are just as devastating as a physical injury.
It is common for women to experience overwhelming and unexplainable feelings of sadness and confusion for a few weeks after having a baby, as the Mayo Clinic explains. People often refer to this as the “baby blues,” and it is usually the result of changing hormones and the stress of adjusting to having a new baby. Usually, the baby blues go away after a couple of months, at most. Unfortunately, some mothers experience something much worse than the baby blues. Postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis are serious emotional conditions that can last for months after childbirth or become a chronic issue. The complications of postpartum depression can include the following:
- Pervasive feelings of sadness, hopelessness and desperation
- Difficulty bonding with the baby
- Trouble interacting with other family members and doing everyday tasks
- Suicidal thoughts or thoughts about harming the baby
Those suffering from postpartum psychosis may experience hallucinations, delusions, obsessive thoughts and paranoia, as well as attempting to harm one’s self or the baby.
It does not help that many women are hesitant to seek help when they develop postpartum depression, either because they do not fully understand the condition or fear others will think less of them. However, it is important for expectant mothers and their family members to understand that there should be no stigma surrounding this complex condition, and that there is treatment.
Even today, many doctors do not understand the significance of recognizing and treating postpartum depression. Those who suffered harm as a result of a missed diagnosis or a doctor who dismissed their worries may wish to consider seeking compensation.
