Postnatal Depression - Health Service Executive

Postnatal DepressionWhat causes it?Whatcauses it?We do not know the exactcause of postnatal depressionbut research suggests thatthere are a number of factorsthat contribute to it.These include:» Birth experienceYou may find that your birth experiencedoes not match your expectations. Thisfeeling of being ‘let down’ can contributeto depression. Some women who developpostnatal depression have a traumatic ordifficult birth, or a premature or unwell baby.» Biological factorsA small number of women who developpostnatal depression have a temporarythyroid gland defect, which is linkedwith mood changes. Some women maybe particularly vulnerable to the drop inhormones after giving birth. There is no firm»»»scientific evidence to support this, but thereis ongoing research on the subject.Changes in lifestyleThe birth of a baby brings changes to yourlife. New babies are hard work, with theconstant demands of feeding, bathing,crying and putting to sleep. This usuallymeans you lose a lot of sleep. A newmother is suddenly responsible 24 hoursa day. You lose the freedom you enjoyedbefore your baby arrived. This sense of losscan contribute to depression. It may taketime for you to find ways to adjust to yourchanged circumstances.RelationshipsThe birth of a baby can also have aprofound impact on your relationships withyour partner, family and friends. This cansometimes cause enormous strain.Stressful life eventsRecent life events, such as bereavementor serious illness, may mean that you areemotionally stressed before the birth ofyour baby. You may also be affected byunemployment or lack of money. Motherswho do not have a supportive partner or