Alternative Treatments for Postpartum Depression: Acupuncture and Herbs

Although most physicians recommend a combination of medication and therapy to treat postpartum depression, Becca Seitz, licensed and board certified acupuncturist and Chinese herbalist, has a different view. Seitz, who is the owner of To The Point Acupuncture and Herbal Clinic in Portland, Oregon, explains why and how acupuncture and Chinese herbs can help treat postpartum depression.

“When a woman is pregnant, she gives of herself to her growing baby,” Seitz says.  “Not only is she giving nutrients, but some of her energy (Qi).  In Chinese medical theory, a woman gives her Qi and Blood to grow her baby.  Some women, because of a stronger constitution (a combination of their energy levels prior to pregnancy and their genetic makeup), will be able to offset this draw on their bodies by eating and creating more energy, others will not. Those women who are not able to offset this draw will begin to suffer from the effects of Qi and Blood Deficiency.  Qi and Blood Deficiency can manifest as many different symptoms (including fatigue, dizziness, irritability, etc.) for some women this will manifest as post-partum depression.”

Seitz doesn’t discount the importance of medication to treat PPD, however. “It’s important to treat post-partum depression multi-modally,” she explains.  “Medication may be necessary to get her feeling better immediately, but the underlying cause should NOT be overlooked.  If the lack of Qi and Blood isn’t addressed, when she tries to get off of the anti-depressants, she will likely continue to experience deppressive symptoms.”

The treatments Seitz recommends consist of acupuncture, which involves inserting fine needles (about the thickness of a human hair) into the body, with little or no discomfort, according to Seitz. This might be added to a formula individualized for each patient consisting of Chinese herbs (seeds, berries, roots, leaves, bark, flowers). Usually a minimum of ten treatments is recommended.

To read more about these treatments, visit Seitz’s site at ToThePointAcupuncture.org.

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