New mothers: Navigating Postpartum mental health

Whilst the period following childbirth is often depicted as a time of pure joy and celebration, many new parents grapple with a range of emotions and experiences that can significantly impact their mental well-being.

Research shows that up to 8 in 10 women will experience the ‘Baby Blues,’ and 1 in 10 women will suffer with Postpartum depression - these numbers underscore the importance of acknowledging signs of distress and initiating those compassionate conversations to begin healing. Let's dive deeper with leading general practitioner Dr Alisha Esmail.

Reading the signs

Early detection leads to better long-term outcomes for both mother and baby. Some common warning signs include:

• Persistent feelings of sadness or emptiness
• Crying excessively
• Irritability or anger
• Difficulty bonding with baby
• Intrusive thoughts or fears about harm coming to oneself or the baby
• Withdrawing from friends and family
• Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed.

Or related physical symptoms like:

• Changes in appetite
• Sleep disturbance
• Vague symptoms like headaches or digestive problems without a clear physical cause

The most worrying signs include thoughts of harming yourself or your baby (suicidality), or hearing and seeing things that aren’t real and losing touch with reality (psychosis). Please seek urgent help if this is the case, for your and your baby’s safety.

It’s common to hear of symptoms being masked for fear of consequences, especially when there’s a baby involved - but mental health is becoming better understood and all healthcare professionals should do their utmost to protect the sanctity of the mother and baby relationship, and always do what’s best for you both.

Exploring types of mental health conditions

Postpartum mental health encompasses a spectrum of conditions that can affect individuals after childbirth, but it’s key to remember that they can affect us even before or during pregnancy too!

The most common by far is the well-known ‘Baby Blues.’ This can include mood swings, tearfulness, fatigue, irritability and happens within the first 2 weeks of birth. It’s a result of the drastic drop in hormones post-birth and so it usually self-resolves as your hormones settle, but might need some compassion and self-care!

Next along in frequency is Postpartum depression - it’s a mood disorder characterised by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness and worthlessness. It lasts longer than two weeks, and can interfere with your ability to care for yourself and baby. It often needs support and treatment - the earlier, the better!

Another one is Postpartum Anxiety - this includes generalised anxiety disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder, and symptoms may include excessive worrying, intrusive thoughts, and physical symptoms like racing heartbeat or shortness of breath.

Honestly, the list goes on. There are so many different types of mental health conditions like schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, substance abuse disorders and more - and each type affects each person in different ways. Please seek GP advice if you think you might have symptoms.

Your roadmap to support

No one should face Postpartum mental health challenges alone. There are numerous sources of support available, including:

• Healthcare providers: Obstetricians, paediatricians, GPs, health visitors and midwives can all offer guidance, screening, and support.
• Support groups: Connecting with other parents who are experiencing similar challenges can give you empathy and practical advice. Many communities offer in-person or online support groups specifically for Postpartum mental health.
• Family and friends: Trusted loved ones can offer emotional support, help with household tasks, and provide respite care, allowing you to prioritise your self-care.
• Helplines and hotlines: UK Organizations like the Maternal Mental Health Alliance (MMHA) and PANDAS offer trained volunteers who can provide support, information, and referrals to local resources.
• Apps: Nowadays, mindfulness exercises can be at the click of a button, like on the Headspace or Mind apps.

Paths to healing

Effective treatment can involve a combination of therapies.

Prioritising self-care such as getting adequate sleep, nutritious eating, regular exercise and mindfulness practices can promote overall well-being and resilience.

Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and other forms of talking therapy can help you explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours in a supportive and confidential environment.

Medications like antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, or mood stabilisers may be prescribed in cases of moderate to severe Postpartum mental health issues, under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Techniques like peer support, mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), and relaxation exercises can complement traditional treatments and enhance coping skills.

Take home messages

Here at London Gynaecology, we prioritise your holistic well-being. We invite you to connect with one of our experienced general practitioners to address any concerns you may have.

Postpartum mental health challenges can be daunting, but they are neither uncommon nor insurmountable! By recognising the warning signs, talking about it and seeking early support, you can begin both your and your baby’s journey toward healing and recovery. Remember, looking after your baby means looking after yourself too!

If you require expert Postpartum mental health support, arrange a consultation with Dr Esmail via her Top Doctors profile.