Antenatal and postnatal mental health refers to the time before and shortly after a woman gives birth.
The transition to motherhood is a time of great emotional change. Although many of these changes may be positive, it is normal for some women to also experience periods of low mood and increased anxiety. These tend to resolve themselves, however for a some women this low mood and/or anxiety can go on to have a more significant impact upon their wellbeing. This may be impacted by a previous history of a mental health disorder, relationship/family difficulties, previous pregnancies and other life stressors.
In terms of antenatal mental health, expectant mothers may worry and panic at the thought of impending labour, birth and motherhood.
The majority of women experience a period of low mood, anxiety and tearfulness after having a baby i.e. postnatal. This generally peaks on the 5th day and then starts to subside. However if you are experiencing symptoms lasting longer than 10-14 days either during pregnancy or in the postnatal period (sometimes referred to as postnatal depression) it may be that you need to seek further support.
Symptoms may include…
If you think you could use some help adjusting, we offer the above therapies to help with antenatal and postnatal mental health issues. We also offer a free 15 minute private and confidential telephone consultation to chat through what you’re experiencing and how we may be able to help.
Book a free consultationSelect Psychology is a member of the Professional Practice of Charted Clinical Psychologists offering face-to-face talking therapies to help people to find a way forward with emotional and psychological difficulties.
