Postnatal and antenatal depression
This page talks about the differneces in some of the terms mentioned about postnatal depression.
Postnatal and antenatal depression
Developing depression after having a baby, or while pregnant, is more common than many people realise. But with the right support and treatment, you can get better.
Jump to a section:
What’s the difference between the ‘baby blues’ and postnatal depression?
The ‘baby blues’ refers to a short period of feeling low, emotional, and tearful, typically occurring around 3 to 10 days after giving birth.
During this time, you’re likely adjusting to many new demands and probably getting little sleep. It’s normal to feel emotional and overwhelmed, but this usually passes after a few days and is generally manageable.
Postnatal depression, however, is a more profound and long-term form of depression. It often develops within six weeks of giving birth, can appear gradually or suddenly, and can vary from mild to very severe.
Signs and symptoms of perinatal depression
If you’re experiencing perinatal depression, you might feel:
- Down, upset, or tearful
- Restless, agitated, or irritable
- Guilty, worthless, and self-critical
- Empty and numb
- Isolated and unable to connect with others
- A lack of enjoyment in life or activities you usually like
- Detached from reality or a sense that things aren’t real
- Lacking in self-confidence or self-esteem
- Hopeless and despairing
- Hostile or indifferent towards your partner
- Hostile or indifferent towards your baby
- Suicidal thoughts
Additionally, you may notice that you:
- Lose concentration
- Struggle to sleep, even when you have the opportunity
- Have a reduced appetite
- Lose interest in sex
While some of these feelings can be common during pregnancy and after becoming a parent, it’s important to discuss them with your doctor if you’re concerned about perinatal depression.
Treatments for perinatal depression
If you’re concerned that you might be suffering from perinatal depression, it’s important to speak with your GP or health visitor. Your doctor will discuss treatment options with you, allowing you to jointly decide on the best course of action for your needs.
Talking therapy
Your doctor might suggest talking therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which is a short-term therapy recommended for treating depression
If there are lengthy waiting times for talking therapies in your area, your doctor might recommend alternative options to help you manage your mental health while you wait.
Medication
If you have a history of mental health issues, or if you’re experiencing moderate to severe symptoms, your doctor may suggest medication.
They might also recommend medication if your symptoms haven’t improved with other treatments.
Antidepressants are the most common type of medication prescribed in these situations. If you have any concerns about taking medication, you should discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.
A combination of talking therapy and medication
Some people find that taking medication helps them feel well enough to get the most out of talking therapy. But other people find medication or talking therapy are more helpful on their own.
If your symptoms haven’t improved with either talking therapy or medication, your doctor may suggest that you try both together.
Specialist community mental health team
You might be referred to a specialist community perinatal mental health team if you have severe postnatal depression that isn’t responding to treatment.
If you’re referred to this team, you could be offered additional treatments. These may include more intensive CBT, various talking therapies, and different types of medication.
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)
If you have extremely severe depression that hasn’t responded to other treatments, your doctor might suggest electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). This may also be recommended if your health, or your baby’s health, is at risk.
ECT can be effective very quickly, so doctors might advise having it soon after childbirth. This helps you start caring for and bonding with your baby as quickly as possible.
ECT can also be administered during pregnancy, although it carries higher risks. You should discuss these risks with your doctor.
Get support
Talk with a trained professional about your thoughts and feelings with out free counselling and private counselling service for people over the age of 18.