Welcoming a new baby is a life-changing event. Being a parent can be an exciting experience, but it may also present challenges that impact mental health. For many parents, particularly mothers, postpartum depression (PPD) is a reality that can leave them feeling lonely, anxious, and sad. In this article, we’ll explore this important issue and discuss how cannabis may offer a potential treatment option for those navigating the complexities of postpartum depression. Join us as Ethos pharmacist Sidnee Nicholls shares insights and information on this topic, aiming to support and empower parents.
What is postpartum depression, and how does it typically affect new mothers?
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a mood disorder that affects 1 in 8 parents, particularly mothers, after childbirth. Signs and symptoms can include persistent sadness and tearfulness, anxiety or panic attacks, withdrawal from friends and family, loss of appetite, feelings of loneliness, guilt and entrapment, lack of concentration, and inability to enjoy life and activities. Symptoms can present as early as 3-4 months prior to birth or even up to 6 months after. Typically, symptoms can last up to 6 months post-birth, but more serious cases can last longer and develop into chronic depression. It can often be confused for “baby blues” but it is more severe and lasts longer than 2-3 weeks.
What are some of the traditional treatments for postpartum depression, and how do they compare to using cannabis?
Traditional treatment involves antidepressants such as SNRIs, SSRIs, and TCAs. While effective, the side effects can typically vary, including fatigue, nausea, vomiting, insomnia, dry mouth, and even urinary tract infections. Cannabis may be helpful for anxiety and depression that new parents may feel and help with insomnia in low doses and depending on its derivative. Further, cannabis may offer relief to some of the symptoms of PPD with fewer side effects.
What are the potential risks or side effects of using cannabis to alleviate symptoms of postpartum depression?
According to the NIH, some studies have shown that high doses of cannabis use may increase the risk of postpartum depression however, those same studies show evidence that low doses may help treat PPD. Ethos medical professionals counsel patients to ‘start low and go slow’ to ensure that the lowest effective dose is used.
Are there any specific precautions or advice you would give to breastfeeding mothers considering cannabis for postpartum depression?
If the mother is breastfeeding and wants to use cannabis, it is best to consult a provider. THC can pass through breast milk and may impact infant development because they are very susceptible to cannabinoids at that age, and it can lead to altered neurodevelopment, changes in appetite, and delayed motor development. Studies have found that THC concentration in breast milk is highest 1 hour after consumption and reaches its lowest 6 hours after consumption. The CDC recommends against the use of it if breastfeeding because not many studies have been executed regarding the topic.
How should new mothers approach the decision to use cannabis as part of their postpartum care? Are there any factors they should consider beforehand?
The decision to use cannabis as part of postpartum care should be consulted with a healthcare provider. There are many conditions that cannabis can help with, such as anxiety, depression, appetite, and pain, which can all be symptoms of PPD. Some things to consider are whether the new mother is breastfeeding and other medications that cannabis can interact with. It is also important to start low and go slow, meaning start on a lower dosage and increase dosing slowly until desired results are seen.
What role do healthcare professionals play in helping new mothers make informed decisions about using cannabis for postpartum depression?
Healthcare professionals play a crucial role in new mothers using cannabis for PPD.
- Education: Many new mothers may have questions about the use of cannabis during postpartum, whether they have used it previously or are just starting. A healthcare professional can educate new mothers on recommended forms, where to start, and even how to get a medical card.
- Monitoring: It is important to see a healthcare professional to determine whether symptoms of PPD are mild, moderate, or severe. Once treatment starts, monitoring for side effects and what may be helping or hurting treatment and the mother’s mental state.
- Presenting all treatment options: Understanding all treatment options that may be beneficial to both the new mother and the baby is important. Cannabis may alleviate symptoms of PPD, but it is typically used as an add-on to treatment to therapy and medication.
What would you say to a new mother who feels guilty or ashamed for considering cannabis as a treatment option for postpartum depression?
You are not alone. PPD is a real thing, and being a new mother is a big change in life. Wanting to feel like yourself again is nothing to be ashamed of. Considering all treatment options and considering how you are taking care of yourself does not make you selfish or a bad mom; you are a person who is trying to heal, and you deserve that. Taking care of you is taking care of your baby.
