The Glossary: What is Postnatal Depression? and 5 other questions being asked about the condition

Postnatal depression occurs in as many as 10 to 15 per cent of women within the first year of giving birth

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08:10, 1 JUL 2021
Updated17:04, 9 FEB 2022

The Glossary is your quick and easy guide to trends and terminology in health, beauty and style. With clear, simple explanations, we'll make sure you're always in the know.

Many women have heard of the 'baby blues', however there is a difference between this and postnatal depression.

In fact, symptoms of postnatal depression often start as baby blues and can become more severe.

And it's more common than you might think. According to the HSE, postnatal depression occurs in as many as 10 to 15 per cent of women within the first year of giving birth.

What is postnatal depression?

Postnatal depression is the term used to describe the depression that some women experience in the first 12 months after having a baby.

It doesn’t matter if it’s your first or third child; it can happen to anyone at any point and occurs in an estimated 10 to 15 per cent of women. The sooner it's recognised and treated, the faster you'll be feeling better and on the road to recovery.

Why does it happen?

Straight after giving birth, almost all new mothers experience ‘baby blues’. This is a totally normal response to dramatically fluctuating hormones post-pregnancy, which can last anything from a few hours to a couple of weeks, according to the experts.

Postnatal depression happens when the symptoms of baby blues don’t pass and symptoms worsen.

Anyone who has previously suffered from depression, is dealing with additional stressors or conflicts in relationships, or doesn’t have a strong social support system can be more susceptible to the condition.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of postnatal depression can vary greatly in severity. They might include a frequent low or irritable mood, problems sleeping, crying easily, constant tiredness and feelings of worry, panic or anxiety.

How do I know if I have it?

Postnatal depression can be tricky to diagnose, because many of its symptoms are similar to the usual feelings of stress, exhaustion and moodiness that can come with the significant challenges of a newborn baby.

However, symptoms of postnatal depression might become more obvious when your baby reaches 4 to 6 months old.

You may be experiencing anxiety-provoking thoughts, or be finding it hard to eat, sleep or enjoy life fully with your newborn baby.

If this is the case, there is absolutely nothing to feel guilty or ashamed about.

Giving birth and looking after a newborn child is a physically and emotionally draining experience. We are all only human after all, and there is plenty of help and support out there.

Visit your GP if you're feeling concerned about any symptoms you might be experiencing. They'll be able to screen for postnatal depression and tailor a treatment plan to suit your needs.

What treatments are available?

One of the best forms of treatment for postnatal depression is counselling and talking therapy. If you're diagnosed with the condition, your doctor will be able to refer you to the relevant services.

Drug treatment usually involves anti-depressants. If you're breastfeeding, your GP will be able to prescribe medication that is suitable to take during this time.

It can also be helpful to join a support group for new mothers, or talk with others who have been through similar experiences.

Don’t be afraid to accept help or offers to babysit from friends and family, and make sure to make time to do simple things you enjoy, like going for a coffee, out for a meal or visiting friends.

Taking time to relax and seeing friends and family can make a huge difference to your mood and overall wellbeing.