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Natural Treatments for Postnatal Depression

Postpartum depression occurs after the birth of a baby due to imbalance of hormones, stress, and anxiety. According to the Mayo Clinic, 10 percent of new moms will experience postpartum depression. In most cases, medications are the first option in treating postpartum depression. There are natural alternatives, however, that can treat postpartum depression. If none of these natural remedies work, seek advice from your physician.

  1. Acupuncture

    • Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medicine where very fine disposable needles are injected into points along the body. The idea of acupuncture is to open pathways of energy within the body and to alleviate stress by incorporating deep meditation. Acupuncture also regulates hormones, helps blood flow, and releases endorphins. If postpartum depression is diagnosed, schedule a visit with an acupuncturist. The acupuncturist will discuss the type of acupuncture treatment that is right for you based on the seriousness of your depression.

    Omega-3 Fatty Acids

    • Increasing Omega-3 fatty acids can help prevent or lessen symptoms of postpartum depression. Breastfeeding can deplete a woman's body of DHA; this can lead to postpartum depression or increase depression severity. According to a study done by the University of Arizona, 16 women who were diagnosed with postpartum depression were given Omega-3 fatty acid supplements for eight weeks. During this trial, all depression symptoms dropped by 50%. To increase Omega-3 fatty acids, eat fish such as salmon or tuna three times a week or take a fish oil supplement once a day.

    Massage Therapy

    • Massage therapy is a natural way to help mothers relieve stress and anxiety and lift her mood, helping keep away those postpartum blues. Massage therapy helps reduce stress hormones, back pain, and promotes a healthy normal state of well-being. For the first 12 weeks after pregnancy, schedule a massage weekly or bi-weekly, for at least 30 minutes a session. After 12 weeks, a massage may only be needed every three to four weeks depending on the improvement of your moods because not all women are the same when it comes to treating postpartum depression.

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