Postnatal depression (PND) affects around one in ten women in the UK.
Being pregnant and giving birth can be very emotional and stressful, and many mothers feel quite depressed after their baby is born. Some women continue to feel depressed and tearful for a few months after having the baby, but for others the feeling lasts just a few days.
There are three main types of postnatal depression.
Baby BluesThis is the most common form of PND and usually only lasts a few days. Most women who experience 'baby blues' feel tearful and irritable for up to ten days after having their baby. Medical treatment is not needed.
Postnatal DepressionIf you still feel low a couple of weeks after giving birth you may have postnatal depression. It is usually noticed in the first 4-6 weeks after birth but sometimes it takes a few months to develop. The main symptom of postnatal depression is constantly feeling down, with little sign of it going away. It usually needs to be treated with medication.
Postnatal PsychosisThis is a severe form of postnatal depression, and the most rare. Only about 1 in 1000 women are affected by this form of depression. Symptoms include irrational behaviour, confusion and suicidal thoughts. Women with postnatal psychosis often need specialist psychiatric treatment.
The birth of a new baby can be a stressful time for both parents and men can also be affected by postnatal depression. Fathers may feel depressed because they find it hard to cope or they feel they aren't giving their partner the support she needs. It can also be upsetting for the father if the baby is getting all the mother's attention.
Postnatal depression can put strain on a relationship so it is important to recognise the symptoms early and get treatment as soon as possible.
June 2011 | 
What is Post Natal Depression?
