I saw the health segment on new mothers and the increased risks for depression. My son is just 5 weeks old and I am very much struggling with motherhood. There have been times when I have had to put him in his crib and close the door because I'm afraid I'd hurt him otherwise. Dr. Johnson mentioned prescribing antidepressants, which I would consider, but I'm also exclusively breastfeeding now. Would taking such medications be safe for the baby? Thanks!

I have four children ages 5, 3, 2, and 9months. I have suffered from postpartum depression ever since the birth of my first child. Because the children are so close in age I feel as if I have never gotten over the depression, it just lessens untill the next one is born and then it intensifies. I have never tried counseling but have been one a few different antidepressants, Zoloft, Wellbutrin, and one that started with a P (I lose track. HA HA)but I have yet to find one that is very helpful. I'm curious if some antidepressants have proven better than others, and if so WHAT ARE THEY!!!! After 5 years of postpartum I'm beginning to lose hope wondering if I'll ever be myself again.

look into DHA a component of cold water fish oil. more information at www.omega-research.com. This is not a promotion of any specific product. The information is solid and it does state that you are more likely to have PPD with multiple children. Reason is that the baby needs this "essential" nutrient and the Mother is the source...which depletes the Mother's DHA. Good luck.

I had ppd with my second son... my healthcare provider consulted with my son's pediatrician to make sure the breastmilk would be ok for him if I was on an antidepressant. I think it was Zoloft... he is 9 now and is a perfectly normal, healthy little boy. Blessings to you. You're not alone in this. Asking for help is very important, not always easy, and it takes some time to see results, but it's definitely worth it. Hang in there. And call your doc today. My biggest frustration was actually with friends who were nurses, who I tried to ask for help/info from... they discounted it as the baby blues. But it definitely wasn't. I'm so glad that everyone is becoming more aware of this problem that so many struggle alone with. When I was in the early stages, there were only a few (literally, two or three) Web sites devoted to PPD. But they sure helped.

If this will encourage you at all, here is my experience: I had severe postpartum depression. I knew what it was, with my second child, and my OB prescribed Prozac for me within three weeks of the birth. I also breastfed exclusively for the first five months, and eleven months altogether. My doctor assured me that the risks of PPD were much higher than the risks to the baby from the antidepressant. My daughter never had a moment's trouble from it, never one side effect that I could see. She is nearly five now and a perfectly healthy, strong child. The benefits of the med, to me, were completely worth it. Hang in there.