Postpartum depression affects 10-15% of new mothers, making it a significant public health problem. Postpartum Depression (PPD) can negatively impact maternal-infant bonding, childrearing practices.
Many mothers are reluctant to take medication for fear of side effects or the possibility of exposing their infants to any medications they take through breastfeeding. In these instances, TMS is an appropriate solution as it is non-invasive and drug-free.
Patients receiving rTMS respond quickly, often within two to four weeks, and the effects are long-lasting. rTMS differs from other somatic depression therapies in that there are no systemic side effects that would interfere with child care or the risk of exposing the infant through breastfeeding.
In select cases off-label rTMS may help decrease the sadness, fatigue, irritability, and mood swings associated with postpartum depression.
