Perinatal & Postnatal Depression
Perinatal depression is depression during pregnancy or in the year after birth. Postnatal depression is the term for the period after birth specifically. It affects roughly 1 in 7 new mothers, along with a significant number of fathers and non-birthing parents.
This is different from the temporary mood changes many parents have in the first days after birth. It’s more persistent, it can affect a parent’s wellbeing and day-to-day functioning, and it responds well to the right support.
What are the symptoms of perinatal depression?
Mood & connection
- Persistent low mood, sadness or emotional flatness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities, or in the baby
- Trouble bonding with the baby, or feeling disconnected
- Guilt, a sense of inadequacy, or feeling like a bad parent
- Anxiety, irritability, or a sense of not coping
Body & behaviour
- Fatigue beyond typical new-parent tiredness
- Changes to appetite or sleep beyond what newborn care demands
- Withdrawing from a partner, family or friends
- Thoughts of self-harm or, rarely, of harming the baby
Symptoms that last beyond the first couple of weeks after birth, or that start at any point during pregnancy, are worth taking seriously.
What causes perinatal depression?
Hormonal changes
Large hormonal shifts during pregnancy and after birth add to the risk.
Sleep deprivation
Deep and sustained sleep disruption is a significant contributor.
Psychological history
A personal or family history of depression or anxiety raises vulnerability.
Life circumstances
Relationship strain, thin support, financial stress, or a traumatic birth.
Identity & role changes
The scale of adjustment to new parenthood can be a factor on its own.
Perinatal depression can affect any parent, regardless of how much they wanted or planned the pregnancy. It doesn’t reflect how much someone loves their baby or wants to be a parent.
How is perinatal depression treated?
Psychological therapy
CBT and interpersonal therapy (IPT) both have strong evidence for perinatal depression.
Medication
Antidepressants can be appropriate during pregnancy and breastfeeding, prescribed by a GP or psychiatrist in consultation with your obstetric care team.
Practical & social support
Practical help in early parenthood and connection with other parents alongside formal treatment.
Partner & family involvement
Bringing in support people can improve outcomes and help them offer the right kind of support.
Treatment tends to work best when it addresses both the emotional and the practical realities of the perinatal period.
When should I see a psychologist about perinatal depression?
You don’t need to wait until things feel unmanageable. Reasons to seek support include:
- Low mood, anxiety or overwhelm lasting beyond the first two weeks after birth, or during pregnancy
- Trouble bonding, or emotional disconnection from the baby
- A sense of not coping despite your efforts
- Thoughts of self-harm, or of harming the baby. Seek support immediately.
A GP can set you up with a Mental Health Care Plan under Medicare’s Better Access scheme, which covers a rebate for a set number of psychology sessions each year.
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Get matched with a psychologistFrequently asked questions
What’s the difference between the baby blues and postnatal depression?
The baby blues are common: mild mood swings, tearfulness and anxiety in the first one to two weeks after birth, which resolve on their own. Postnatal depression is more persistent and more severe, and it needs support to resolve.
Can fathers and non-birthing parents experience perinatal depression?
Yes. It’s most often discussed in relation to birthing mothers, but fathers and non-birthing parents can also experience it, and it’s increasingly recognised in this group.
Is it safe to take antidepressants while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Many antidepressants are considered appropriate during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The decision is made individually with your GP, psychiatrist and obstetric care team, weighing the risks and benefits for your situation.
Will seeking help mean my baby could be taken away from me?
No. Reaching out for support with perinatal depression is a responsible, protective step for you and your baby.
Does perinatal depression mean I don’t love my baby?
No. It’s a medical condition, not a reflection of your feelings toward your baby or your capacity to be a good parent.
Do I need a GP referral to see a psychologist for perinatal depression?
No. A GP referral is only needed for a Medicare rebate through a Mental Health Care Plan.
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