The cause of postnatal depression is not completely clear. Most experts think postnatal depression is the result of a combination of things.
These may include:
- depression during pregnancy
- a difficult delivery
- lack of support at home
- relationship worries
- money problems
- having no close family or friends around you
- physical health problems following the birth, such as urinary incontinence (loss of bladder control), or persistent pain from an episiotomy scar or a forceps delivery
Even if your life is free of these types of problems and you had a straightforward pregnancy or labour, simply having a baby can be an extremely stressful and life-changing event that can trigger depression.
People often assume they will naturally adapt to parenthood overnight. But it can take months before people begin to cope with the pressures of being a new parent. This is true even for those who already have children..
In addition some babies are more difficult and demanding than others, and do not settle so easily. This can lead to exhaustion and stress.
Who's at risk
Factors which can increase your risk of postnatal depression include:
- a family history of depression or postnatal depression (genetics appears to play a role in both of these conditions; but exactly what type of role is still unclear)
- you experienced depression or postnatal depression previously, or other mood disorders such as bipolar disorder
The role of hormones
Huge changes in hormone levels during and after pregnancy were once thought to be the sole cause of postnatal depression. This is no longer thought to be the case, although hormonal changes may still play a part.
One theory is some women are more sensitive to the effects of falling hormone levels after the birth. All mothers will experience hormonal changes but only some mothers will be affected emotionally.
It could also be the case that this, as well as the stress of looking after a baby or money problems may trigger the depression.
