Do Dads Experience Postpartum Depression?

News Desk

Islamabad: Around 10 per cent of fathers around the world suffer from depression after the birth of their children (postpartum depression), according to a unique study.

Published in the Journal of the American Psychological Association, the research study has found that fathers can suffer from depression and other medical complications just like mothers at the time of childbirth but unfortunately, fathers’ problems are not addressed.

It is generally believed that a mother’s anxiety and medical complications begin as soon as she becomes pregnant, and she also seeks treatment in this regard.

But in such a situation, the father does not take care of his health and being a man, there is also a social attitude that the father does not suffer during childbirth.

The report stated that while fathers may suffer from depression after the birth of children, up to 18 per cent of husbands are also more likely to experience medical complications after their wives become pregnant.

Husbands experience the same medical complications as women after pregnancy, including nausea, gastrointestinal complaints, heartburn, insomnia and a rapid heart rate, according to the report.

The report made the surprising claim that after a partner becomes pregnant, men also increase levels of certain hormones that are involved in similar functions, including making milk for new mothers.

In the research, it was admitted that men around the world do not take care of their mental health during pregnancy and childbirth. Health experts also think that the father does not need treatment.