Treating Postpartum Insomnia

Answer 1

After childbirth, a woman's body goes through many physical and hormonal changes. These changes come with many unpleasant side effects, including postpartum insomnia. Symptoms of postpartum insomnia include an inability to fall asleep or stay asleep, night sweats, racing thoughts, rapid heartbeat and strange dreams or nightmares. Postpartum insomnia can last for several months after childbirth, and affects as many as fifteen percent of all new mothers.

Causes and Effects of Postpartum Insomnia

Many factors can contribute to the onset of postpartum insomnia. The most likely cause is the hormonal changes women experience after childbirth. During pregnancy, estrogen and other hormone levels increase tremendously, then bottom out after delivery. These hormonal fluctuations often cause symptoms that can interfere with sleep, including anxiety, depression and hot flashes.

Postpartum insomnia can have many effects on a woman's physical, emotional and psychological well being. In addition to the normal stress associated with motherhood, women with postpartum insomnia experience even more anxiety, exhaustion and irritability. These symptoms can affect every aspect of life, and can interfere with the ability to care for a newborn.

Treatment for Postpartum Insomnia

Many women assume that insomnia after childbirth is a normal part of motherhood, and are therefore reluctant to seek treatment; however, postpartum insomnia is a real medical condition, and should be treated as such. And although postpartum insomnia usually goes away in time, seeking treatment as soon as symptoms present themselves is recommended. If left untreated, postpartum insomnia can lead to more serious conditions, including depression, panic and anxiety disorder, and health complications such as high blood pressure.

Many women opt for herbal and home remedies, while others seek medical advice from a doctor or other trained professional. Herbal remedies include chamomile tea, lavender oil and valerian root. Medical treatment for postpartum insomnia can involve the use of several treatment methods, including prescription sleep aids and hormone therapy.

Tips for Dealing with Postpartum Insomnia

In addition to herbal and medical treatments, there are several methods that can help in dealing with postpartum insomnia. These include warm baths at bedtime, avoiding stimulants such as caffeine and nicotine, avoiding alcohol, a balanced diet and regular exercise.