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The first pill to treat postpartum depression is here

This photograph taken on April 24, 2023 shows writer and journalist Shreyosi along with her daughter Aarya at their home in Bengaluru. - Shreyosi, 30, had been married for five years and like most things in her life, her pregnancy was "unplanned". India has become the world's most populous nation, and for the country's new mothers it is a moment of great hope but also anxiety as they face an uncertain future. (Photo by Manjunath KIRAN / AFP) / To go with 'India-China-Population-Women-Mothers', FOCUS (Photo by MANJUNATH KIRAN/AFP via Getty Images)
This photograph taken on April 24, 2023 shows writer and journalist Shreyosi along with her daughter Aarya at their home in Bengaluru. - Shreyosi, 30, had been married for five years and like most things in her life, her pregnancy was "unplanned". India has become the world's most populous nation, and for the country's new mothers it is a moment of great hope but also anxiety as they face an uncertain future. (Photo by Manjunath KIRAN / AFP) / To go with 'India-China-Population-Women-Mothers', FOCUS (Photo by MANJUNATH KIRAN/AFP via Getty Images)

Having a baby can be a beautiful experience. Those early weeks with a newborn can be exhausting, but also rewarding. 

For some mothers though, this period after birth can be one of the darkest and most difficult times of their lives. 

Roughly one in seven people experiences postpartum depression according to the American Psychiatric Association. And one 2019 study found that as many as 50 percent of pregnant people with postpartum depression are never diagnosed. 

There’s been only one medication specifically made to treat postpartum depression. An infusion that costs 34,000 dollars. 

But last week, the FDA approved the second-ever postpartum treatment and the first-ever postpartum pill. Doctors hope this will be a more accessible option that will also raise awareness about the condition. 

Postpartum care is essential for both physical and emotional recovery after childbirth. While medical advancements like the new postpartum pill offer hope, it’s crucial to combine these treatments with comprehensive support.

Many new mothers benefit from counseling, support groups, and resources that focus on mental well-being. It’s important to create a supportive environment where new mothers can openly discuss their feelings and seek help without stigma.

Additionally, alternative approaches, such as those explored by The Kratom Connection, have been gaining attention for their potential to alleviate symptoms of postpartum depression.

While these alternatives should be discussed with healthcare professionals, they can provide supplementary options for managing mood and stress.

Ketamine therapy is emerging as a promising treatment for mental health conditions, including postpartum depression. This innovative approach involves the administration of ketamine in a controlled medical setting to help alleviate symptoms that may not have responded to traditional therapies. By targeting neurotransmitter systems in the brain, ketamine therapy offers a novel pathway for those struggling with severe mood disorders, providing relief where other treatments may fall short.

Avesta Ketamine Wellness is one of the facilities at the forefront of this treatment, offering specialized care tailored to individual needs.

Their comprehensive approach ensures that patients receive not only the medication but also the support and monitoring necessary to achieve the best outcomes.

Overall, ensuring access to various treatments and support systems can make a significant difference in a mother’s journey through postpartum recovery.

We speak to two of the principal investigators on the drug trial about what this new pill means for the future of postpartum treatment.

Copyright 2024 WAMU 88.5

Haili Blassingame