Postnatal depression

Postnatal depression (PND) occurs when a woman experiences moderate to severe depressive symptoms after childbirth which may occur immediately after childbirth or develop at any time during the first year. PND is fairly common affecting almost 16 per cent of mothers in Australia.

 

Postnatal depression (PND) is a fairly common problem affecting a woman during the 12 months after she's had a baby. While 'post baby blues', whereby a mother feels fragile and teary after having a child, affects many women, with PND the symptoms of depression are more severe and persistent and may seriously affect the relationship between mother, child and partner.

The onset of PND can be slow or sudden and symptoms may include:

• Feeling low for long periods of time.
• Lack of interest your baby or other activities.
• Feeling detached or unable to cope with your baby.
• Fatigue and difficulties sleeping.
• Reduced appetite or comfort eating.
• Negative thoughts and feelings.
• Loss of sex drive.