Postpartum Depression and Copper Toxicity

“To complicate things further, women with copper toxicity and estrogen dominance often inadvertently exacerbate their condition with oral contraceptives including the copper IUD and hormone replacement therapy (HRT). In general, the greater the number of pregnancies, the higher copper levels rise in women biochemically susceptible to postpartum depression and psychosis.”

Physiological and Emotional Symptoms of Postpartum Depression

• Irregular menstrual cycles

• Painful menstrual cycles

• Fibroid tumors

• Adrenal fatigue

• Endometriosis

• Certain types of cancer such as breast and uterine

• Overwhelming sadness

• Inability to bond with baby

• Numbness, disconnectedness

• Heightened irritability, anger, rage

• History of depression with hormonal changes

• Inability to cope with normal stress

“Copper-toxic females have what is called “poor copper detox mechanisms.” For these women, copper levels rise with each pregnancy and do not come down. These women find themselves depressed after pregnancy and unable to recover, even years later.

Some of these females move from postpartum depression to postpartum psychosis. Women with postpartum depression after their first two children are at greater risk with subsequent pregnancies unless they receive proper treatment for their biochemical imbalance. It is not solely the number of pregnancies but the actual copper level that affects the risk for postpartum psychosis.”

Symptoms of Postpartum Psychosis

• Hallucinations

• Strange beliefs or delusions

• Extreme heightened irritability

• Hyperactivity and impulsivity

• Insomnia

• Paranoia

• Rapid mood swings

• Inability to concentrate

“If you know of someone who struggles with postpartum depression, please share this post. If you currently struggling, please share your experience in the comments below. It is through sharing your story that we create community, eliminate guilt and shame, and bring about healing.”

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