NYC urges docs to do routine HIV testing on adults (AP)

AP - Health officials are trying to persuade doctors to offer HIV tests to nearly every patient in a New York City community hit harder than most by AIDS.

Bringing a new baby into the world should be one of lifes most precious experiences. Unfortunately, for mothers affected by post pardum depression, what follows may feel more like a nightmare. You brought home a bundle of joy but didnt anticipate the distressing feelings you are now experiencing.

Pregnancy purchase bulk tribulus terrestris powder extract childbirth are attenuated by physical and psychological stresses that can affect not only a womans body but also her mental health. These factors can result in either the baby blues, which, it is estimated affects up to 70% of new mothers, post pardom depression, that occurs in one in 10 cases or, in the worst scenario, an even more troubling disorder called postpartum psychosis (where the mother is at risk of harming either herself or her infant). Thankfully, this third category is rare.

Depression has many faces and each womans experience will be different; however, emotional well being and physical functioning will be compromised. Trying to focus and remember or attempting to make decisions may be difficult. Lack of energy and motivation can be accompanied by irritability and restlessness, feeling agitated and anxious. A mother suffering from postpardum depression may believe shes facing an uphill battle, feeling ashamed and guilt-ridden, isolated by feelings she has little control over. She may feel terrible sadness and suffer from uncontrollable crying spells, then feeling overwhelmed, withdraw from friends and family. In addition, physical problems may be distressing and hard to cope with. Appetite and sleep problems may interfere with functioning and contribute to fatigue and exhaustion, accompanied by hyperventilation, heart palpitations (skipping or rapid beats), and chest pains. Imagine trying to grapple with all of the foregoing and then attempting to meet your childs emotional needs!

Childbirth affects a womans body in particular ways. Chemical changes have taken place during and after pregnancy. Hormonal changes may have led to chemical imbalances in the brain. Because post pardum depression can seriously impact on daily life, family relationships, and more importantly, on a mothers precious relationship with her infant, it is imperative that treatment is sought.

Treatment will be focused on relieving symptoms and correcting imbalances, and different treatment options are available. Conventional methods will employ talk and group therapies, helpful in gaining an understanding about how and why you have been affected. These aid in changing thinking patterns and in developing effective coping strategies. Antidepressant medication may be administered in conjunction with cognitive and behavioral approaches to relieve symptoms of post pardom depression. Nursing mothers may be concerned about substances they take into their bodies and possible transmission that may prove harmful to their infant. Research indicates that psychotropic medications are secreted into breast milk; however, adverse effects in infants appear to be relatively low. If you have concerns, these should be discussed with your doctor.

For those interested in exploring other treatment options for postpardum depression, natural remedies offer safe and effective alternatives. Natural supplements include herbal extracts such as black cohosh and chaste tree berry which may relieve irritability and sleep disturbances, vertigo and headaches, heart palpitations, anxiety, and depression. Essential minerals like calcium and magnesium help alleviate physical and emotional stress. Valerian is well known for its effectiveness in helping to reduce anxiety and sleep disorders. It has been used for mood disorders, including depression. Chamomile aids digestion and reduces anxiety. Natural supplements include beneficial vitamins and minerals, amino acids, enzymes, specialty supplements and additional herbal extracts. All of these ingredients provide potent and effective relief.

With the options available today, mothers and their babies dont have to suffer the effects of post pardum depression. Each person is different and will choose a treatment they feel is of the most benefit.

Natural supplements provide a flexible, safe, and effective alternative when post pardom depression impacts your functioning, your relationships, and your well being.

Natural remedies are gaining in popularity as a viable treatment option and can be turned to when seeking treatment for postpardumdepression.

If you are suffering the effects of post pardum depression, you don't have to go it alone. With the help and hope that modern treatments provide, you'll find that your "new arrival" really is a bundle of joy!

Athlyn Green is an avid health enthusiast with an interest in natural remedies for treatment of health disorders. She is a regular contributor to several health sites, including Beat Your Depression, a site dedicated to treating depression safely and effectively.