Depression during the postpartum period is common. In fact, about 85% of all women experience mood swings and some kind of mood related disorder. While postpartum blues among women is common, it is often mild and does not require any treatment. Postpartum depression (PPD) on the other hand, a more severe form of postpartum blues, can have you feeling overwhelmed, irritable, anxious, and tearful. While mild forms of PPD can be treated by several methods such as aromatherapy, among others, if the depression persists and worsens, it is best to consult your doctor for advice.
What is PPD: Typically, PPD occurs during the first few months after delivery. The degree of symptoms varies among women, and it is akin to the kind of depression that one can suffer from at any other time. The most common symptoms of PPD are feeling depressed or sad, feeling like crying, loss of interest, feeling guilty and worthless, tiredness, insomnia, changes in appetite, and in severe cases, suicidal thoughts.
How can aromatherapy help: Aromatherapy has been known to be helpful in combating PPD. In fact, many essential oils as well as other aromatherapy products are available in the market that are meant specifically for treating PPD. Some of the most common aromatherapy methods for helping in alleviating symptoms of PPD are as follows. Keep in mind that it is important to leave your baby with another responsible adult so that you can enjoy some alone time without the infant.
Aromatherapy baths are extremely uplifting and relaxing. In order to prepare this bath, mix five drops of ylang-ylang, jasmine, bergamot, clary sage oil, or neroli into warm water. Make sure to mix these oils quickly so that they are evenly distributed in the bath water. Now, simply soak in the tub for 15 to 20 minutes and soothe your nerves. If for some reason you are unable to soak in a tub and can only shower, you can add a few drops of the same oils to your wash cloth or sponge. Rub your self gently all over with it and take in long deep breaths while doing so.
When you’re not bathing or showering, you can simply add a few drops of these oils to a handkerchief or tissue and inhale frequently. You can also light scented candles and place in them in the room, or place aromatherapy sachets under your pillow.
If you suffer from more severe symptoms and are having a hard time dealing with the mood swings, you should use oils from various parts of an orange tree. Neroli from the flowers of an orange tree, petigrain from its twigs and leaves, and of course, orange from its fruit are extremely helpful in uplifting spirits and rejuvenating the