Depression before and after pregnancy
No woman is immune to antenatal or postnatal depression, but research shows that women living in low to middle-income countries particularly are at high risk.
This month (July) is Mental Illness Awareness Month and special emphasis will be placed on the alarmingly high rates of depression globally and locally among women who are about to give birth (antenatal) and those who have given birth (postnatal).
Shouqat Mugjenker, Mental Health Portfolio Manager for Pharma Dynamics sais no woman is immune to antenatal or postnatal depression, but research shows that women living in low to middle-income countries particularly are at high risk.
According to the World Health Organisation, about 10 to 13 per cent of women experience antenatal and postnatal depression globally, while in most developing countries the condition affects 20 per cent of mothers. “In stark contrast, more than 40 per cent of South African women suffer from the condition,” Shouqat said.
Shouqat said the likely reason for postnatal depression in SA is women’s exposure to a number of risk factors, which could include poverty, intimate partner violence and the threat of HIV.
“Depression can affect new mothers in many different ways and can start a few months before giving birth or at any time within the first year after childbirth. Most women feel tearful and anxious within the first few weeks after giving birth, which is completely normal and commonly referred to as the ‘baby blues’, but if feelings of sadness and low mood lasts longer than two to three weeks, it might be a sign of postnatal depression,” Shouqat said.
Postnatal depression puts both the mother and baby at risk since some mothers could turn to smoke, drugs or alcohol to help them cope and as a result neglect caring for their newborns.
“Unfortunately, postnatal depression often goes undiagnosed as symptoms, such as loss of interest in life, lack of energy, increased irritability, persistent feelings of sadness, guilt and hopelessness are often dismissed or overlooked. New mothers have to deal with enormous change that ranges from fluctuating hormones to having to adjust both mentally and emotionally to the relentless demands of a baby,” Shouqat said.
“If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, consult your local clinic, GP or psychiatrist who will be able to confirm a diagnosis and advise on how best to manage the condition going forward. With the right help and treatment, you will be able to care for yourself, other family members and your baby,” Shouqat encouraged.
Source: Meropa Communications
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