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Alternative medicine
By Mayo Clinic staffLittle research has been done on complementary and alternative therapies for postpartum depression. Although some data is available, it's not definitive.
If you'd like to try a complementary or alternative therapy for postpartum depression, share your wishes with your doctor. He or she can help you weigh the benefits and risks of specific therapies, such as:
- Acupuncture. Acupuncture helps promote deep relaxation, and sometimes even sleep. This may help relieve the fatigue that accompanies postpartum depression.
- Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are known to support infant brain development during pregnancy. Some research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids — whether eaten in fish and other seafood or taken as a nutritional supplement — may help relieve postpartum depression as well.
- Massage therapy. Some studies suggest that massage therapy may be helpful for postpartum depression.
- Creative arts. Art, music and drama therapy have been suggested as possible ways to relieve postpartum depression, perhaps by providing a supportive, relaxed environment, offering new ways of expression or encouraging positive behavior changes.
Some studies suggest that the herb St. John's wort may be helpful for mild to moderate depression, although there's been no research published on St. John's wort and postpartum depression specifically. It's best to avoid St. John's wort if you're breast-feeding. St. John's wort may cause colic, drowsiness or lethargy in a nursing baby.
