Postnatal depression

The key difference between postnatal depression and the baby blues is the severity of the symptoms, and their duration. This does differ between women. The symptoms can occur separately or be a manifestation of prolonged baby blues.

PHYSICAL SYMPTOMS INCLUDE:

● Sleep disturbance, unable to get to sleep, waking early

● Headaches

● General pains and feelings of being unwell (for example, chest pains, heart palpitations)

● Hyperventilation, panic attacks

● Loss of sexual interest

● Marked change in appetite.

PSYCHOLOGICAL/ EMOTIONAL SYMPTOMS:

● Despondency and despair

● Feeling inadequate, unable to cope

● Inability to concentrate, think clearly or remember things. I’ve had a few new mums say to me, “It’s almost like my brain disappeared with the placenta.”

● Thoughts of suicide, strange thoughts or fantasies

● Lack of interest in activities once enjoyed.

There are numerous contributing factors to postnatal depression, from hormonal issues to social problems. The following aspects are thought to increase the risk factor for women: stressful or unplanned pregnancy, difficult childbirth, isolation, lack of family support, the death of a loved one, a previous cot death, stillbirth or miscarriage, unresolved issues from childhood, increased workload at home, juggling a career and a new baby, and more.

MEDICATION CONCERNS

Work with your healthcare provider to make an informed choice that gives you – and your baby – the best chance for long-term health and wellbeing. Although antidepressants are considered low risk with regard to causing birth defects during pregnancy, the type and amount of medication needs to be carefully considered. Maternal mental health specialists are the first port of call for advice; however, your psychiatrist and/or primary healthcare provider should be knowledgeable in this area or able to refer you to a specialist.