Postpartum disorder removes ‘Maternal instincts’ from mothers:Cases from child strangulation to nail attacks emerge; experts stress crucial role of husbands

The January 10 incident in Parasgaon, Chhindwara, shocked society as a mother murdered her two-and-a-half-year-old daughter. Villagers remain stunned by her statement that she strangled the child in a fit of anger because she could not tolerate the crying. Emotional imbalance overwhelmed her to the point that she forgot the bond of motherhood. Experts say this is not just a criminal case but highlights a growing psychological issue, postpartum disorder, where women face depression and unbearable mental pressure after childbirth, posing serious risks to families and society. Gandhi Medical College, Bhopal, reports that 2 out of 10 women experience postpartum mental health issues during pregnancy or after delivery. Families often dismiss it as normal mood swings, but without timely treatment, the condition can harm the child’s upbringing and even become life-threatening. Postpartum depression increased by social media Pregnancy and the post-delivery period are extremely sensitive for women, both physically and mentally. Dr. Ruchi Soni, Associate Professor at Gandhi Medical College, says, Pregnant women today face more stress due to social media, constant comparisons, fear, and misinformation. Concerns about delivery, the baby’s health, body image, and how other women are coping increase self-blame, anxiety, and despair. When family support is lacking, these pressures can develop into postpartum depression and, in some cases, postpartum psychosis. One to two women report to the OPD with such issues regularly. Husband’s role determines mental future
Dr. Ajay Haldar, a senior gynecologist from Bhopal, states that a report in the Journal of Biosocial Science found that the presence of the husband from pregnancy to childbirth has a positive impact on both the woman and the newborn. This reduces pain during labor, increases women’s decision-making ability, and decreases mental stress. The likelihood of postpartum disorder also remains low. Dr. Halder said, 90% of women are reaching the hospital without their husbands, whereas they need emotional support the most during that time. In the OPD, I advise every woman that they should come for the follow-up with their husband next time. Having the couple together during this process has a better effect on the health of the mother and child. Cases of child murder 8-year-old son strangled to death in MP In Sidhi district, a mentally unstable woman, Phool Kumari Baiga, strangled her 8-year-old son to death in Katri Kadi village. The mother and child went missing on the evening of October 4, and the next day, shepherds found the boy’s body on a hill about one kilometer from the village, after which police were alerted. During interrogation, the mother confessed to the murder. Villagers said she had been mentally disturbed for a long time. Police registered a murder case, began the investigation, and sent the accused woman to jail. Two other cases also surfaced in other states Bhilwara case: Kanpur case: