What should you know about physical signs of postpartum depression?

Postnatal depression may affect the body as well as thoughts and emotions. Someone may feel drained even after resting, struggle to sleep when the baby sleeps, or sleep much more than usual. Appetite or weight can change, and headaches, stomach discomfort or general aches may occur. Some people lose interest in sex or find closeness difficult. These changes can overlap with normal recovery, anaemia, thyroid problems, pain or lack of sleep, so they deserve a proper health assessment rather than self-blame.

Low mood after birth, guilt, hopelessness, irritability or difficulty bonding can occur at the same time. Physical symptoms alone do not establish the diagnosis, but a cluster that persists or disrupts daily care is a reason to ask for help.

Tell a trusted person what is happening and contact your midwife, GP, obstetric clinician or mental health service. Mention sleep, appetite, pain, bleeding, medicines and any thoughts that worry you. Accept practical help with meals, rest and baby care where possible. Perinatal mental health support can include talking therapy, medical review and other personalised options; treatment can be compatible with feeding plans when discussed with a clinician.

Get immediate help if you might harm yourself or the baby, cannot care safely, feel detached from reality, hear or see things others do not, or feel extremely agitated and unable to sleep. Contact emergency services or go to an emergency department. Seek prompt medical review for severe headache, chest pain, breathing difficulty, heavy bleeding, fever or worsening physical illness after birth.

Could a physical condition be contributing to these symptoms? What support is available today? Which treatments fit my recovery, medicines and feeding plans?