Postnatal depression is now widely known about and midwives, health visitors and GPs are aware of the need to look out for women who could be suffering from it. Less well known is that some women suffer from depression during pregnancy (antenatal depression) as well. However, the good news is that this condition is increasingly likely to be diagnosed, meaning that help can be given to women who are suffering.
How do I know if I have depression?
ots of women feel the symptoms of the ‘baby blues', usually around 3 or 4 days after the baby is born. They might be more tearful than usual, particularly anxious or feel overwhelmed by the enormity of becoming a parent.
For most women the symptoms and feelings usually pass in a few days but for some a deeper depression takes their place.
Postnatal depression can be recognised by feelings of anxiety, low mood, restlessness, tearfulness, panic attacks, feelings of inadequacy, a lack of interest in yourself and possibly your baby, a feeling of being unable to cope or guilty, rejected and/or tiredness. It may be that those close to you notice these symptoms more than you do.
In pregnancy the symptoms of antenatal depression can be very similar. The anxiety may show itself in extreme concerns over the health or safety of the unborn baby, you may have problems concentrating at work or finding the strength to carry on with everyday tasks. Your appetite and sleeping may be affected and you may find it difficult to see the positive aspects of your life.
Many women who have suffered with antenatal depression say that it is difficult to talk about it with those close to them. A lot of these women felt that they should be joyful at what might be a longed-for pregnancy, but worries about the health of the baby, changing body image, financial or employment worries, concerns about how their relationships will change with a baby and worries about whether a mother will bond with her baby can all put pressure on an expectant mother.
Some find that they just don't know who to talk to as they fear that they should be seen to be ‘blooming' and overjoyed about the pregnancy. They may also find that family and friends are all too excited about the baby to understand the concerns of the mum-to-be.
How common are antenatal and postnatal depression and the baby blues?
It's thought that between 50-80% of new mums experience some form of baby blues. For as many as 10% of women it may become postnatal depression. It usually appears in the first 4-6 weeks after the birth but for some mums it can take several months to appear or be recognised.
Figures for the number of women who suffer with antenatal depression are more difficult to find, as this is a relatively newly identified condition, but one research paper from 2001 estimated the figure to also be around 10% of pregnant women.
What can be done?
Advice for women suffering from depression - be it during pregnancy or after - usually includes confiding in a health professional, such as your GP, midwife or health visitor. Some women find that gentle exercise, rest, help with caring for the baby, someone to talk to and good social support can all be helpful.
In some areas there may be special support groups where you can meet other mums who are suffering. Knowing you're not alone can help, as can sharing advice on coping with the effects of the depression. You may be offered some counselling to help you learn to cope, manage and overcome your difficulties.
Women with moderate to severe depression may be prescribed antidepressants and there are some that can be taken in pregnancy. They can take time to take effect and shouldn't be stopped without supervision from your GP or care team.
What should I do if I think I'm depressed or not coping well?
Seeking help as early as possible is important. If you can, talk to those close to you about how you're feeling but also ensure you speak to a trained health professional such as your GP, midwife or health visitor. Ask that an assessment is made so that, if appropriate, a diagnosis can be made.
If you don't feel able to talk about your concerns about yourself then take a friend or family member with you to help you discuss how you are feeling.
You shouldn't be concerned that you will be seen as a bad mother for feeling the way you do. Depression cuts across all areas of the community and any mother can suffer from it. It is nothing to be embarrassed or ashamed of, and with help and support you can get through it.
For more pregnancy information, visit Tommy's.
