“Everything changes.”
This was the refrain that I heard most often as we advanced through my wife’s pregnancy with our daughter. I couldn’t fathom the depth of this expression at the time, or the impact that having a child would have on me, both physically and mentally (mainly due to sleep deprivation).
For my wife, however, as well as every other mother out there, the changes are much, much more dramatic. From a physical standpoint, the changes that occur in the hours and days after giving birth (called postpartum) are incredible – and can have a debilitating effect on women in the form of postpartum depression.
New research has given us some insight into what may be contributing to postpartum depression, as well as a method for addressing the problem.
Brain protein could be the root of the problem
Estrogen levels drop 100- to 1000- fold during the first 3-4 days postpartum, which elicits many other hormone and biochemical changes in the new mom. Since estrogen levels during pregnancy are about 300 times higher than during non-pregnancy, these fluctuations alone could bring about major changes in mood, emotionality, physical strength, and sleep patterns along with numerous other challenges.
In addition, new research published in the Archives of General Psychiatry has also shown that levels of a brain protein called monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) increase substantially during postpartum. These researchers discovered that levels of MAO-A in healthy women 4-6 days after delivery were 43% greater as compared to women not recently pregnant. The findings were strongest on day 5, the day when postpartum depression is usually the most severe.
MAO-A removes chemicals like serotonin that help maintain a normal mood. Greater levels of MAO-A means that more serotonin will be removed, which could make new moms feel sad and depressed. Postpartum depression is the most common complication of childbearing affecting 13% of mothers and can have a devastating impact on mom, baby and the entire family.
Postpartum depression doesn’t have to be debilitating
Understanding the biology of postpartum depression is important because now we can address it. We know how to address neurotransmitter imbalances like this using specific amino acids and precursors to offset the depletion.
These amino acids and precursors are no different than those found in everyday food; they are just in different amounts, so they are very safe and easy to use.
The protocol involves using two products, and can be found here (Getting Started with General Amino Acid Therapy Level 1 only). Some women will need help adjusting their particular levels of neurotransmitters and we can help them do so by contacting our offices and setting up a phone consultation.
Most women will only need to follow the protocol for one month. If after discontinuing the products you begin to feel down/blue again, start taking them again and follow for a couple more months. If you ever want additional help or guidance, just give us a call.
These products address the underlying imbalances brought about by the changes that occur with delivery and are safe for mom and baby alike. Everything does change when you have a child, but with a little help, you can enjoy the changes and the little miracle that is your baby.
Original Research