Having a baby means radical changes in the lives of both parents. It is no wonder that many parents have feelings of ambivalence at times about the newest addition to the family. This is common no matter how eagerly the birth of the baby was anticipated, and is perfectly normal. However, in addition to the extra stresses, fatigue and any feelings of ambivalence that parents may experience, some mothers suffer from more significant emotional stresses after the birth of a baby.

Postnatal depression is now recognised as much more common than was once thought. It is believed to be due to hormonal changes, and in varying degrees to affect up to 15% of women postnatally, and can occur at any time during the initial postnatal period. The clinical features are similar to depression at other times. They include low energy, fatigue, loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, and loss of interest in social relationships. Often there are feelings of sadness and sometimes hopelessness, and crying bouts for no apparent reason are common. To these symptoms are added often intense feelings toward the baby, ranging from ambivalence and disinterest, to outright anger.

In the majority of cases these symptoms are transient, passing after a period ranging from a few weeks to a few months. Doctors and nurses are now far more aware of the extent of this condition and are able to assist women suffering from postnatal depression at an early stage. Sometimes all that is required is support and understanding; if symptoms are more severe, more intensive help may be needed. Most large centres now have specialised mothers and babies units organised for the short-term admission of the mother and her baby, for appropriate treatment. Usually this consists of specialised counselling and therapy, though sometimes medications are prescribed.

If you do feel awful after the birth of your baby, make sure you discuss things with your doctor or maternal and child healtn nurse. Do not wait until things get out of hand. It is often most helpful to talk to an understanding health professional. Make sure that you talk to your partner too, and enlist the help of your support network.

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