Did you know that approximately one in 10 women experience postpartum depression (PPD) after giving birth? Actually, some studies even report as high as one in seven women.
This serious mood disorder causes mothers (even fathers) to feel extreme sadness, anxiety, and irritability. They may also experience a loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed, have difficulty sleeping, changes in appetite, fatigue, and difficulty bonding with the baby. If left untreated, postpartum depression can have a profound impact on a mother's well-being and her ability to care for her child.
PPD generally lasts from three to six months, although the duration can vary based on several factors. On the bright side, approximately 80% of women with postpartum depression will achieve a full recovery. But what causes PPD in the first place anyway?
What Causes Postpartum Depression?
The causes of postpartum depression aren't pinpointed to a single factor. Family history plays a role, especially if there's a history of major postpartum depression. Hormonal changes after childbirth, such as a sharp drop in estrogen, progesterone, and thyroid hormones, can contribute to feelings of tiredness, sluggishness, and depression. Sleep deprivation and overwhelming feelings of responsibility for a newborn can also lead to anxiety and loss of control, contributing to postpartum depression.
While many moms struggle silently with postpartum depression with over 50% of moms with PPD going undiagnosed by a healthcare professional, some local celebrity moms have courageously opened up about their experiences:
5 Local Celebrity Moms That Opened Up About Their Battles with Postpartum Depression
1. Jessy Mendiola
After giving birth on December 28, 2022, Jessy shared her experience with PPD and the importance of accepting her postpartum body. She highlighted the link between accepting oneself and improving mental health, encouraging other moms to embrace their strength and beauty in the motherhood journey.
“The truth is, accepting your postpartum body gives a huge impact on your mental health. I went through postpartum depression and it wasn’t easy,” she said. “We will always have insecurities, that’s a given. But once you acknowledge the strength of carrying a life inside of you for [nine] months, giving birth and caring for your baby while recovering is definitely amazing.”
2. Michelle Madrigal
In a YouTube vlog with Carla Humphries, Michelle revealed her struggle with PPD after moving to the US with her husband to pursue her culinary arts dreams. She emphasized the significance of discussing postpartum realities and supporting mental health, especially in Filipino culture where it's often overlooked.
“Sa atin kasi, Filipino culture, parang when someone says they're depressed or whatever, they don't acknowledge that. And honestly, you have to," the actress stressed that "depression is real” and that “you have to help them out because if not, they will rely on other things."
She continued, "Even after giving birth, moms talk about the beauty. 'Oh my gosh, breastfeeding this and that.' But in reality, people should really talk about what goes on, like what happens after giving birth? What [do] you really feel?"
3. Andi Eigenmann
Actress Andi faced PPD after welcoming her third child, Koa. In a vlog, she discussed the emotional challenges faced by mothers during this phase, sharing her experiences with Lilo, her second child, when she also dealt with PPD. With her husband Philmar Alipayo's support, Andi chooses to enjoy her time with her children and maintain a positive mindset to overcome PPD.
“In my Instagram, I mentioned I had postpartum depression with Lilo. Papa [Philmar] would always tell me that this phase will go by very quickly, and now, this time around, I just really want to enjoy my time with my kids because you know it's true what he said. Everyday they are growing, and we will never get this time back,” she said. “I'm choosing to look on the positive side of all of this and really just been enjoying the super sarap feeling of having a newborn,” she added.
4. Kylie Padilla
The Kapuso actress opened up about her struggles with PPD and postpartum anxiety three years ago. She faced hormonal fluctuations and emotional tolls, hindering her from caring for her children after childbirth. Despite the challenges, she found her way and embraced authenticity, urging others not to get stuck in a bad place.
“Today I wake up. I ask myself, what about now? I have a safe home for my kids, work that I'm proud of, and one by one my dreams are becoming my reality. After all my doubt, pain, and fighting the silent battles, fighting my own psyche for the right to be happy, I'm here. Still growing, still learning but always striving to remain grounded in humility. What was once a period in my life I no longer wanted to remember is now something I remember with fondness. Without that pain I [wouldn’t] appreciate my now,” she wrote.
She ended her message on a positive note saying, “Know that life is a cycle and good and bad it all passes. Be in the moment but don't be swept away from it. Live in your authenticity. Repair when you can. Laugh or make someone laugh and last but not least celebrate yourself. You deserve it,” she added.
5. Rufa Mae Quinto
In 2017, Rufa Mae shared in a series of now-deleted Instagram posts her weight loss journey and how it boosted her confidence amid PPD. She also opened up about how she felt overwhelmed and cried every day, preferring to stay at home because of the depression. With determination, she slowly fought her PPD and adjusted to regain her hormones and confidence for her daughter, Alexandria Athena.
“Sa kakaiyak ko halos araw-araw, naghubad and posing na lang ako. Natutulala sa shock na I have a child. Meron ako war shock pag nasa labas. Part ng postpartum ko, di ko ma-explain, I can't stand to be out, parang I wanna scream 'tapos nabibingi ako, gusto ko umuwi agad sa bahay. Pero slowly fighting it over,” she said.
“Nasanay ako na buntis, still adjusting. 'Tapos ngayon, I'm alone, back to myself again, slowly regaining all my hormones and confidence para sa anak ko, I want her to see me ok, so I can take care of her,” she added.
Remember, it's crucial to open up about PPD and seek help if needed. These celebrity moms' stories serve as a reminder that with support and determination, one can overcome postpartum depression and embrace the joy of motherhood. You're not alone, and there's always light at the end of the tunnel.
*This story originally appeared on Preview.ph. Minor edits have been made by Cosmo.ph editors.
