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This page/column contains information which may be of interest to consumers. The information is based on articles which appear in Australian Prescriber. As Australian Prescriber is written for health professionals, you should discuss any issues raised by this page/column with your doctor or pharmacist. They will be able to give a more detailed answer to your questions by reading the main article.

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Australian Prescriber Vol. 31 No. 2 2008

Postnatal depression

Mild postnatal depression is common and is usually related to mothers having to adjust to a different lifestyle. However, insomnia and weight loss may be signs of more serious depression.

Mothers with postnatal depression often seek help for their babies but not for themselves. They perceive that their babies have sleeping and feeding difficulties and do not recognise that their own anxiety and depression may be the underlying problem.

If you consistently feel sad and unable to cope with your baby, it is important to talk to your child health nurse or doctor about your feelings. Antidepressants are not necessarily the answer for all women and joining a support group with other mothers in the same situation may help.