About 15 per cent of women will have depression or anxiety during pregnancy and an even larger number in the postnatal period.
Many women suffer unnecessarily and for a long time with mental illness because they feel a sense of shame, guilt and even embarrassment because they have “allowed themselves to be depressed” at a time when they are supposed be joyful. But of course, depression is not something you have control over especially during this vulnerable time.
An untreated mental illness can have longterm health and wellbeing impacts for you and your baby so it is important to get the right treatment. There are a number of safe and effective treatment options for depression during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. If you feel that you may have symptoms, visit your GP. Depending on your diagnosis, you may be referred to see a psychologist or a psychiatrist.
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Baby blues
Baby blues are very common, affecting up to 80 per cent of new mothers. It’s not really understood why women experience baby blues but it is thought that it may be due to rapidly changing hormone levels after the birth.
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Depression & pregnancy
During pregnancy and again in the postnatal period, most women in Australia will be screened for depression.
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Anxiety & pregnancy
Anxiety is a normal reaction to pregnancy and pending parenthood. As many as thirty per cent of pregnant women will experience some level of anxiety. A smaller will have more severe symptoms and will be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder.
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Bipolar disorder & pregnancy
A person with bipolar disorder will experience periods of extreme highs and lows. Sufferers will generally have their first episode in their late teens or early twenties. For some women though, giving birth will trigger their first bipolar episode.
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Schizophrenia & pregnancy
Schizophrenia is uncommon and there is usually a family history. Sufferers will generally have their first episode in their late teens or early twenties.
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Eating disorders in & after pregnancy
Eating disorders are more common in younger women who are also the women most likely to be pregnant.
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Post-partum psychosis
Post-partum psychosis is a very serious mental illness that starts soon after childbirth. Fortunately it is very rare, occurring in only one woman per 1000 who deliver, and there are very effective treatments.
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Disclaimer
The Women’s does not accept any liability to any person for the information or advice (or use of such information or advice) which is provided on the Website or incorporated into it by reference. The Women’s provide this information on the understanding that all persons accessing it take responsibility for assessing its relevance and accuracy. Women are encouraged to discuss their health needs with a health practitioner. If you have concerns about your health, you should seek advice from your health care provider or if you require urgent care you should go to the nearest Emergency Dept.