1_Perinatal-depression

Pregnancy and welcoming a new baby can be an exciting and happy time, but some women struggle with their mental health which can make the experience challenging. If you experience depression during pregnancy or after giving birth, it may be known as:

Antenatal depression – depression while pregnant

Postnatal depression (PND) – depression during the first year after giving birth

Perinatal depression – depression that occurs any time from becoming pregnant to around one year after giving birth.

Antenatal depression

Antenatal depression can begin at any stage during pregnancy. Although some women develop antenatal depression during just one of their pregnancies, others may experience repeated episodes.

During pregnancy it’s normal for a mum-to-be to feel tired or not feel themselves emotionally. But if you’re feeling low and hopeless all the time it could be antenatal depression. Symptoms can include:

  • Feeling sad, low, or tearful
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Daily fatigue or low energy
  • Feeling irritable
  • Withdrawing from friends and family
  • Changes in appetite
  • Loss of enjoyment in usually pleasurable activities
  • A pervasive sense of fear or anxiety
  • A fear of not loving the baby when he or she arrives

Treatment for antenatal depression

Speak to a GP or your midwife as soon as possible if you think you might have antenatal depression. With the right treatment and support, symptoms can be managed. Depending on your health history and stage of pregnancy, you might be offered the following:

  • Talking therapy
  • Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
  • Medication, which is safe to take during pregnancy (if your depression is severe or other treatments have not helped).

Self-help to improve your mood

Your GP or midwife might also suggest some self-help tips. These could include:

Talking about how you’re feeling with a friend, family member, doctor or midwife

Including movement in your day to lift your mood and improve sleep. Read this NHS guide to exercise during pregnancy

Going to antenatal classes to meet others who live locally and are expecting a baby at a similar time to you

Eating a healthy diet. Read this NHS guide to healthy eating.