What should you know about postnatal depression after birth?

You may feel persistently low, empty, irritable or disconnected from your baby, even when others expect happiness. Loss of interest, guilt, hopelessness, poor concentration, sleep changes beyond the baby's routine, appetite changes and frightening thoughts can occur. A low mood after birth can be a sign of postnatal depression, while a symptom alone does not establish the diagnosis. Low sex drive may also follow exhaustion, mood changes or physical recovery.

Tell a trusted person what has been happening and arrange an assessment with a doctor, midwife or mental health professional. Perinatal mental health support may include talking therapy, practical help, medication, or a combination chosen around feeding, recovery and your preferences. Keep basic needs visible: accept meals, rest when possible, and let someone share baby care. Do not stop prescribed medicine suddenly without advice.

Seek urgent help now if you might harm yourself or your baby, cannot keep either of you safe, or feel detached from reality. Hearing or seeing things others do not, severe confusion, extreme agitation, or unusual beliefs after birth can signal a psychiatric emergency. Stay with a trusted adult, move away from immediate hazards, and contact local emergency services or an emergency department.

Ask: Could these symptoms be postnatal depression? What support fits my symptoms and feeding plans? How quickly should treatment be reviewed? What warning signs mean I need emergency help?