Postpartum depression associated with autolytic attempts and aggravated by newborn separation
Postpartum depression associated with autolytic attempts and aggravated by newborn separation

Summary/Abstract: Postpartum depression affects about 10-15% of women, and it is a condition with negative consequences not only for the mother but also for the baby, the partner, and the entire family. There are many causes of postpartum depression: hormonal changes after childbirth, genetic predisposition, sleep deprivation, radical lifestyle changes, lack of emotional support, childbirth complications requiring a longer recovery, the birth of a child with health problems, and other emotional/social/economic factors influencing a mother's mental health. This paper features a particular and complex case of a 20-year-old woman diagnosed with postpartum depression who had numerous suicide attempts (ingesting several prescription drugs and a toxic substance) and psycho-cognitive damage. Intra-family conflicts aggravated the patient's symptomatology, separation from her newborn, and poor socioeconomic status, preventing her from continuing her treatment. This case provides a clear picture of the diversity and severity of symptoms occurring in postpartum depression and highlights the relevance of elaborating and implementing prevention measures.

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