Q: Good morning doc, please on this Ebola, is it possible for one to get re-infected after recovering from the ailment? Thanks

A: Well, it is thought that having been infected once, one develops antibodies that stop reinfection with that same strain of the virus. There are other strains of the Ebola virus, though.

Q: Hi doc, please I don’t know if you can help me with some tips on how to improve my mood naturally without the use of antidepressant. I have been feeling sort of depressed since I put to bed eight months ago. Thanks
A: Congratulations on your new baby. I am happy you have actually identified something is wrong because in our African environment, mothers with post-partum depression feel ashamed to admit the fact that they are finding it difficult to bond with their babies, feel inadequate and just feel withdrawn from everyone. You’re not alone 🙂
Post-partum depression (depression after having a baby, sometimes called baby blues) can occur within 6 weeks of having a baby but often times becomes obvious only around 6 months. It usually announces its presence with persistent tearfulness, moodiness and irritability. It could be due to the physical, psychological, mental, emotional, financial and other stress involved with having and looking after a baby. It could also be linked to the hormonal changes that happen after having a baby. People at risk of this are those who have experienced it before, people who have a history of depression before or during pregnancy.

Treatment is focused on the cause. Counselling may be used to discover the root cause of your depression and proffer better ways of coping/dealing with the issues raised. Hormone replacement therapy may be used to deal with depression related to decrease in estrogen (a hormone) level after having a baby. And then, anti-depressants are also an option.

Given your reluctance to try the anti-depressants, I hope counselling works for you and can help you through this. Having a strong supportive group in church or a supportive group of friends or family can also be helpful at a time like this.

For subsequent pregnancies, be sure to prevent this by eating well, exercising, creating me time and ensuring that you praise yourself for achievements, while setting goals that are realistic. And try not to bottle up your issues…air them out with the caring people in your trusted circle.
You’ll be fine 😀

Big hugs

Good night, y’all 🙂