Having a baby is undoubtedly one of the most challenging experiences a woman can face.
Alongside monumental hormonal changes, lack of sleep, routine and connection with loved ones are just some of the challenges of caring for a newborn.
However, many of the expected emotional and lifestyle changes involved in new motherhood can be a sign of something more serious.
Postnatal depression (PND) is a common type of depressive illness that affects up to one in 10 mothers, although it can affect fathers and partners too.
While it can often be mistaken for the 'Baby Blues', which should not last long, one doctor wants people to be aware that PND is not to be taken lightly.
Dr Sameer Sanghvi, a practicing GP and clinical technology lead at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor, explained: “The so-called ‘Baby Blues’ which can involve feeling irritable, anxious and tearful are common amongst women with newborns and shouldn’t last more than two weeks.
"But some women are affected by more severe and long-lasting low mood issues. To make things difficult, many of the symptoms of PND are emotions you would expect to experience when looking after a young baby."
Signs of PND can be easily missed as they are similar to those seen in women who are still adjusting to motherhood.
"Thanks to these crossover symptoms, PND can easily go unnoticed. That’s why it’s important to highlight these symptoms and spread awareness about how women can get help should they need it”, said Dr Sanghvi.
According to the medical expert, the exact cause of PND is unknown. He added: “There is no exact cause for PND but it’s likely down to the extreme changes that occur when you become a parent.
"It can set in weeks or even months after giving birth and can seriously affect your ability to take care of your baby or cope with daily life.”
There are some key signs of PND that should not be ignored.
Postnatal depression symptoms to look out for
According to Dr Sanghvi, symptoms of postnatal depression include:
- Loss of interest in your baby
- Being unable to stop crying
- Feeling hopeless
- Excessive anxiety about your baby
- Feeling as if you can’t cope
- Struggling to enjoy anything
- Memory loss or trouble concentrating
- Panic attacks
- Fatigue
- Feeling generally unwell
- Aches and pains
- Anxiety
- Sleeplessness
- Loss of appetite
Some women are at increased risk of PND as Dr Sanghvi explains: “If you already have mental health conditions such as depression or bipolar disorder, you’re at greater risk of developing PND.
"Similarly, we see greater prevalence in people with relationship problems or issues in the home, and among women who either didn't plan to become pregnant or struggled to fall pregnant.”
Dr Sanghvi stresses that seeking help for PND requires honesty: “Let me make it clear that PND does not make you a bad parent. There are a lot of effective treatment options for PND including self-help, therapy and antidepressants.
"To get the help you need, it’s important to be open and honest about your symptoms. The first step to recovering from PND is seeking support from your loved ones.
"Talk to family and friends about PND and how they can help you. This may include looking after your baby, helping around the house or simply listening to you."
Lastly, the most important thing to remember is that if you're experiencing any of the above symptoms, or if you are feeling overwhelmed as a new mother, please don't hesitate to seek help.
Dr Sanghvi concluded: “Although midwives and health visitors are trained to spot the signs of PND, it’s important that you reach out to a healthcare professional at any time if you feel you may be suffering with PND.”
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here.
