Postnatal Depression

Depression affects 5 - 22 % of women after childbirth. Postnatal depression is regarded seriously by medical health professionals and is upsetting not only to the women suffering from it but to their families as well.

Many mothers may experience mild "postnatal blues" and tearfulness a few days after delivery. In cases where this lasts beyond a week, professional advice should be sought. Approximately 10 - 13 % of women experience a prolonged depression that requires admission to a psychiatric facility.

Identifying the mothers that may be at higher risk of postnatal depression is an important first step.

A past psychiatric history is a significant risk factor. Some studies have shown a relationship between postnatal depression and delivery by forceps, vacuum or caesarean section. Although it is commonly believed the mother's age and breastfeeding are linked to postnatal depression, there are no conclusive findings to confirm this.

Emphasis on educating pregnant mothers and preparing them for the childbirth experience, the postnatal period and how to manage their baby is important.

Support and reassurance after the delivery of the child are also important.

Mothers who wish to breastfeed should be given the support and they should also be encouraged to have the baby room in with them.

Often there is an emotional swing away from the initial elation when the mother starts to experience the discomforts of peuperium, where the body undergoes multiple physiological changes following childbirth. Some of the discomforts include breast enlargements, pain in the episiotomy wound and the contraction of the uterus.

The mother may also experience fatigue from lack of sleep, anxiety over breastfeeding and caring for the infant. These may be heightened when she leaves the hospital.

Additionally, she may subconsciously fear that she may be permanently less attractive to her husband and be anxious over the loss of sexual interest and libido.

For mothers who have difficulty adjusting, a longer stay in the hospital after delivery may help in adjusting to the new baby.

In cases of mild depression, support and open dialogue may be all that is needed from the patient's doctor and her family. Others may require a mild hypnotic drug or antidepressants.

Offering mothers a less idealised image of motherhood and greater childcare support may lessen the feelings of dependency, isolation and low self-esteem.