Understanding Postnatal Depression: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

It’s often said that giving birth is one of the most joyous occasions in a woman’s life, but something that’s talked about less often is postnatal depression (PND).

While it’s common for mothers to experience the ‘baby blues’ for a day or two after giving birth, one in 7 Australian mothers will experience postnatal depression – a mood disorder that comes on within 12 months of giving birth.

There is help available for mothers experiencing postnatal depression. Here, Medmate explains the symptoms, causes and treatment of the condition:

What is postnatal depression?

Postnatal depression is a depression which some mothers experience after having a baby. It typically begins within the first few weeks of giving birth, but can start anywhere within the first 12 months. It can start slowly or suddenly, ranging from mild to severe. While most cases quickly pass on their own, some women will need professional help to overcome postnatal depression.

What causes postnatal depression?

The exact cause of PND is not known, and it’s likely that there are several factors that contribute to experiencing the disorder. Hormone fluctuations, including that of estrogen, progesterone and thyroid hormones, are a major contributing factor to postnatal depression.

Symptoms of postnatal depression

The symptom of postnatal depression are largely shared with clinical depression. Every mother experiences the disorder differently, and to varying degrees of intensity. Common symptoms of PND include:

• A prolonged low or sad mood
• Lack of confidence or self-esteem
• Feelings of inadequacy and guilt
• Tearfulness
• A difficulty bonding with your baby
• Negative thoughts
• Feelings that life has no meaning
• Feeling helpless
• Anxiety
• Loss of appetite
• Low sex drive
• Loss of interest in normal activities

Relationships between mothers and babies during postnatal depression

One of the key symptoms mothers may experience during postnatal depression is a strained relationship with their babies. PND can result in a withdrawal from others, including the mother’s baby. This, in turn, can fuel the depression and lead to feelings of guilt and failure. This difficulty bonding is a symptom of the depression and, once the condition lifts, the mother resumes a regular emotional state and can experience a more positive connection with her child.

Treatment for postnatal depression

Treatment for PND begins with seeking the right help. There is the Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA) national helpline (Tel. 1300 726 306), as well as a variety of support groups available. Medmate has a team of empathetic clinicians and psychologists who also help people experiencing PND.

Medmate is a caring telehealth team, helping new mothers overcome postnatal depression. Our team of doctors and psychologists are dedicated to helping people get the treatment they need, without needing to leave the home. With empathetic, professional and non-judgemental care, we are with you every step of the way. Book a telehealth consultation with one of our doctors today and start feeling your normal self again.