What are the symptoms?
These vary from one person to another and depend on the severity of the illness but the following symptoms are quite common:-
- sleep difficulties
- feelings of inadequacy or inability to cope
- feelings of guilt about not fulfilling the expectations of motherhood
- inability to feel warmth and bonding towards the baby
- loss of appetite
- irritability or marked anxiety about normal, everyday situations
- hostility towards the perceived shortcomings of a partner or loved ones
- unexplained tearfulness
The rarer Puerperal Psychosis is much more severe and may bring on delusions, mood swings, hallucinations, suicidal ideas and sometimes, in severe cases, infanticidal thoughts.
No mother will experience all of these symptoms but perhaps a number of them in combination.
How often does it occur?
30-50% of mothers are not affected at all
50-70% of mothers suffer from "baby blues"
Around 10% of mothers suffer from post-natal depression
Less than 0.3% of mothers suffer from Puerperal Psychosis
Why does it occur?
There is no single cause and a number of factors may influence the severity
It may be brought on by the natural biological or hormonal changes in the mother's body, changes in social activities and lifestyle or simply the emotional shock generated by the realisation and practicalities of motherhood
It can happen to any woman, regardless of social status, financial security or the number of previous children, or even a previous incidence of post natal depression. A past history of similar illnesses, however, is thought to increase the risk of recurrence.
Treatment
- Family support - close friends can help by providing practical support as well as simply talking about emotions
- Medication - Local GP can help by prescribing antidepressant medication if this is deemed appropriate
- Counselling - GP can also refer to Health Visitor or Therapist to provide ongoing support.
- A referral to a Consultant Psychiatrist can be made if necessary for more severe episodes
- Hospital Treatment - in-patient treatment can be helpful if mother is unable to cope.
- There are some specialist Mother & Baby Units available nationwide.
- Self-help Groups
Simple Hints & Tips
The following can help alleviate some of the symptoms:-
- Rest
- Relaxation techniques
- Nourishment - proper regular meals
- Talk to others about emotions
- Ask for help - you are not alone
- Prepare - being prepared for motherhood is invaluable
- Avoid excessive alcohol, caffiene or medication which is not prescribed by a doctor
We have a leaflet available with the above information and more....if you would like a copy, please contact us and we will be happy to send this to you.
