Health in pregnancy and the early years

Postnatal depression is a type of depression that many parents experience after having a baby.

It's a common problem, affecting more than 1 in every 10 women within a year of giving birth. It can also affect fathers and partners.

It's important to get help as soon as possible if you think you might be depressed as symptoms can last for months or get worse. They can have a significant impact on you, your baby and your family.

During the first week after childbirth, many women get what's often called the "baby blues". Women can experience a low mood and feel mildly depressed at a time when they expect they should feel happy.

"Baby blues" can happen due to the sudden hormonal and chemical changes that take place in your body after childbirth.

Symptoms can include:

• feeling emotional and bursting into tears for no apparent reason
• feeling irritable or touchy
• low mood
• anxiety and restlessness

All these symptoms are normal and usually only last for a few days. If they last longer than 2 weeks after giving birth you should speak to your GP, midwife or health visitor.

The NHS has lots of information online to help, including treatment available. You can also speak to your GP, midwife or health visitor if you are struggling.

Our directory has a range of services if you are struggling with postnatal depression.

There is also information about 'parenting and mental health' available on our website.