Understanding Postnatal Depression

with Alexandra Heath

The birth of a baby represents a profound transition affecting the mother physically and both parents emotionally and existentially. There may also have been difficulty with conception, previous pregnancy loss, pregnancy illness, birth trauma, poorly babies, NICU stays and poor postnatal care – all of which, together with sleep deprivation, breastfeeding issues etc. can take a substantial toll on parent’s physical and mental health.

Depending on the research used, between 10% and 30% of women will develop postnatal depression in their child’s first year, involving symptoms such as frequent crying, emotional highs and low, feelings of anxiety or guilt, fatigue. Sadly, maternal suicide remains the leading cause of death in the first year after pregnancy.

In this first of two classes designed to give an insight into postnatal depression, we will be discussing the definition of perinatal depression, what the symptoms are and how can it be recognised by those supporting parents. We will learn about the most common drivers for low mood and depression during the perinatal stage and look at the role that perinatal trauma plays in the manifestation of PND.