Peripartum and postpartum depression

Depression around pregnancy can involve persistent sadness, emptiness, irritability, guilt, hopelessness, loss of interest, severe worry, low energy, sleep or appetite changes, difficulty bonding, or feeling unable to cope. These symptoms can occur even when a baby is wanted and loved; they are not a sign of poor parenting.

The condition may start during pregnancy or develop after birth, and it can affect partners and families as well as the person who gave birth. Low mood after birth that continues, worsens, or interferes with daily care is a reason to contact a healthcare professional.

Tell a midwife, obstetrician, GP, or mental health professional exactly what you have noticed and how it affects sleep, eating, relationships, and caring for the baby. Ask someone trusted to stay with you, help with practical tasks, and accompany you to an appointment. Perinatal mental health support may include talking therapy, practical support, medication, or a combination chosen with pregnancy and breastfeeding in mind.

Seek emergency help immediately if you may harm yourself or the baby, cannot keep yourself safe, feel detached from reality, hear or see things others do not, or have rapidly changing, unusually elevated, or confused behaviour. Stay with a trusted person and do not manage these symptoms alone while arranging help.

Ask whether your symptoms fit depression, anxiety, or another perinatal condition; what support is available locally; how treatment relates to breastfeeding; and what warning signs should trigger emergency care. Ask how follow-up will be arranged and who to contact outside appointments.