Postnatal depression Q&As
Published by Bupa's health information team, November 2009.
Answers to questions about postnatal depression
This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email.
- How long does postnatal depression (PND) last?
- Do fathers get postnatal depression?
- Will postnatal depression affect my child?
How long does postnatal depression (PND) last?
This is different for each woman. Generally the earlier it's spotted, the easier postnatal depression (PND) is to treat. If left untreated, it can last longer and be more severe.
Explanation
How long you have PND varies but it can take up to a year to feel better. If you think you have postnatal depression, talk to your GP or health visitor about getting support and treatment as soon as possible.
Self-help measures that may make you feel better include:
- talking to a friend, relative, counsellor or health visitor who will listen and not judge you
- talking to other parents to help you feel less isolated - discussing issues or concerns that they're going through may help you feel better about yourself and how you're coping
- making time for yourself by asking a friend or relative to look after the baby
- spending the time away with your partner or a friend may help
- talking about your new arrival, the impact on your life and how you're adjusting
- exercising to alleviate feelings of depression - there are organised walks and runs with buggies you can do with other mums in some parks
- eating a balanced diet to keep you healthy
- getting into a routine with your baby so you can get as much sleep as possible too - broken sleep will make you feel more stressed and irritable
- being less critical about yourself
Further information
MIND
0845 766 0163
www.mind.org.uk
National Childbirth Trust
0300 330 0770
www.nctpregnancyandbabycare.com
The 'Meet a Mum Association' (MAMA)
0845 120 3746
www.mama.co.uk
The Royal College of Psychiatrists
www.rcpsych.ac.uk
Sources
- Understanding postnatal depression. MIND. www.mind.org.uk, accessed 24 May 2009
- Postnatal depression. The Royal College of Psychiatrists. www.rcpsych.ac.uk, accessed 24 May 2009
Do fathers get postnatal depression?
In recent years, postnatal depression in fathers has become more widely recognised with as many as one in 25 fathers affected.
Explanation
As with women who suffer postnatal depression, men can be affected by changes to lifestyle, circumstances such as money and work, and increased responsibility and pressure.
Your relationship can change as you cope with adjusting to a baby and the focus now being on your child. Intimacy may also be an issue as women often don't feel like sex for some time after giving birth. You don't have as much time to yourself and you may be very tired. Talking though these issues and any other concerns you have with your partner and/or a professional such as a health visitor or counsellor can help. Ask your GP for advice.
Further information
MIND
0845 766 0163
www.mind.org.uk
National Childbirth Trust
0300 330 0770
www.nctpregnancyandbabycare.com
The 'Meet a Mum Association' (MAMA)
0845 120 3746
www.mama.co.uk
The Royal College of Psychiatrists
www.rcpsych.ac.uk
Sources
- Understanding postnatal depression. MIND. www.mind.org.uk, accessed 24 May 2009
Will postnatal depression affect my child?
It may affect your child if left untreated, but by making sure you get treatment as soon as possible you can help to prevent this.
Explanation
Some research shows that postnatal depression, in either the mother or father, can affect a child socially, psychologically, physically and emotionally.
However, it's important not to feel guilty - postnatal depression isn't your fault and there are things you can do to help you feel better.
Ask for help and support from your GP or health visitor. They may ask you to complete a test called the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale questionnaire to find out if you're depressed. Completing this as honestly as possible will help ensure you get the help you need.
It's important to look after yourself by having some time out. Exercising, eating and sleeping as well as possible will all help, as may baby massage or parenting classes.
Further information
MIND
0845 766 0163
www.mind.org.uk
National Childbirth Trust
0300 330 0770
www.nctpregnancyandbabycare.com
The 'Meet a Mum Association' (MAMA)
0845 120 3746
www.mama.co.uk
The Royal College of Psychiatrists
www.rcpsych.ac.uk
Sources
- Ramchandani P, Stein A, Evans J, et al. Paternal depression in the postnatal period and child development: a prospective population study. The Lancet 2005. 365(9478): 2201-05
- Postnatal depression and puerperal psychosis. Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN), June 2002. www.sign.ac.uk
Related topics
This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
Publication date: November 2009
Postnatal depression factsheet
Visit the postnatal depression health factsheet for more information.
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