Post natal depression is one of the names used for the severe mood changes that a woman can experience after childbirth (usually in the first year after the birth). It is natural for a woman to experience mood changes after she gives birth, but post natal depression is when the feelings last more than two weeks, or are very severe, and have a significant negative affect on her life.

This is different to the feelings that are called the ‘blues', when a woman feels down or weepy in the first few days after childbirth. It is very common for women to have bad days and feel a whole range of emotions at this time; after all, her body, lifestyle and family have just undergone a massive change.

Factors contributing to post natal depression:

Biological/physical reasons

Psychological/emotional reason

• Already showing low self esteem.
  
• Troubled memories of her own family and how she was parented.
  
• Being a perfectionist who wants (and expects herself) to do everything perfectly, and then blames herself when she can't.
  
• Needing more support with baby, house or other children
  
• Feeling a need to always be in control, which is not possible all of the time with a baby.
  
• Past grief and loss from a death of a child or loss of pregnancy (miscarriage).
  
• Having a caesarean section delivery when a natural childbirth was wanted.
  
• Experiencing a difficult labour and delivery. Social reasons
  
• Changed social circumstances, like being a long way from family and friends, making her feel alone and isolated.
  
• Relationship problems with her partner. This major change could make it difficult to understand each other, particularly at this important time.
  
• Problems with her parents (new grandparents).
  
• Major social changes for the woman, including her identity, activities, friends, interests, home, employment circumstances, independence and financial status.
  
• The pregnancy having been unwanted
  

Symptoms of PND

If you know someone who may be suffering from post natal depression or needing more support please encourage them to talk to their medical carer. Let them know we can provide private post natal care in their home and provide contacts for other essential health professionals, including counsellors specialising in the child bearing years, or support groups. CONTACT US  BY EMAIL today or call 0403952830 to talk about how we can help.

Dads, mothers or extended family- What you can do

In our western society many of us live in a nuclear family and work long hours. Many women don’t have the luxury of family, mothers, sisters or partners who can offer care and support when they need it or in the manner which they need it.

Becoming involved and educated about the experiences and changes for a new mother can be the easiest way to show support and encouragement for her new life. However, we understand that sometimes time is limited or you may need to return back to work.

If you feel that you would like to offer more support for a new mum, contact us to talk about how we can help to design a package to suit their needs and minimize any likelihood of postnatal conditions. We also have a range of wonderful gift ideas for new mums. CONTACT US for more information