Postnatal mental health and wellbeing

In the first couple of weeks after giving birth it is common to experience “baby blues” where you can feel tearful, low in mood and anxious. This is usually due to changes in hormones and settles within two weeks. If symptoms last longer than this it can be postnatal depression.

Postnatal depression is common affecting one in ten women within the first year after giving birth, partners can also be affected. Symptoms can include persistent feelings of sadness, low mood, hopelessness, fatigue, difficulties sleeping and changes to your appetite. Risk factors for developing postnatal depression include a previous history of depression, a lack of support after giving birth and a traumatic birth experience.

Mothers can struggle with daily functioning and bonding with the baby, leading to overwhelming emotions and a sense of detachment. Postnatal depression can be treated and with the appropriate care and support most people will make a full recovery.

Many parents, especially first-time parents, experience worries or fears about their ability to care for their baby or concerns about the baby's health and safety. Worrying as a parent is normal, but when that anxiety becomes overwhelming, impacting your mood, making you feel restless, affecting your day-to-day functioning or sleep, then it’s important to seek support. Speak to loved ones and healthcare professionals; they can provide the right treatment, including coping strategies and reassurance during this challenging time.

Perinatal OCD involves unwanted thoughts (obsessions) that lead to repetitive behaviours (compulsions). In the perinatal period these thoughts can often involve the baby's safety or well-being, and lead to compulsive behaviours like excessive checking on the baby or cleaning, often causing distress and interfering with daily life. It can affect one in fifty mothers during pregnancy so getting the right help - which may involve therapy and/or medication - is important to manage the symptoms.

A difficult or traumatic birth experience can emotionally impact both parents. Symptoms of PTSD may include intrusive memories, nightmares, or avoidance of reminders of the birth, and these symptoms can cause significant distress and interfere with bonding with the baby. Speaking to a healthcare professional about your experiences, seeking therapy and utilising support groups specialised in birth trauma can provide support, validation and coping strategies that can aid in the recovery process.

Postpartum psychosis is a rare but severe mental health illness that requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms can include hallucinations, delusions, and extreme mood changes. It might be difficult to recognise that you are unwell, symptoms may be picked up by family or loved ones. Prompt medical intervention is essential in managing this condition and ensuring the safety of both mother and baby.

The first step is to recognise the symptoms of perinatal mental health. If you are experiencing any symptoms or your partner is or maybe your loved ones feel you need some extra support - know that you are not alone. There are multiple support services and healthcare professionals who will help you through this journey and with the right care and treatment you can make a full recovery.

Speak to your partner, a trusted friend or family member about how you feel. They can provide a supportive ear, and can help you to access the right support that you need.