Postnatal Care
Low Mood After Birth: Starting a Conversation About Support
Persistent low mood, anxiety or feeling unable to cope after birth deserves support. Postnatal depression is treatable and is not a measure of how much you love your baby.
Persistent low mood, anxiety or feeling unable to cope after birth deserves support. Postnatal depression is treatable and is not a measure of how much you love your baby.
Notice more than sadness
Symptoms can include loss of enjoyment, guilt, irritability, difficulty sleeping even when you can rest, or problems bonding. Brief “baby blues” often settle within two weeks, but symptoms that persist, worsen or affect coping should be discussed with a clinician.
You do not need to wait until every symptom is present before asking for help.
Use a simple opening sentence
You might say: “I am struggling more than I expected, and I need help with my mood.” Explain how long this has been happening and what daily tasks feel difficult.
Tell the clinician about previous mental-health treatment and whether you are breastfeeding. Support may include talking therapies, practical help and medicines selected for your circumstances.
Make the next step concrete
Ask who will provide treatment, when follow-up will happen and what to do if symptoms worsen before then. A trusted person can help arrange appointments or attend if you want support.
If you may harm yourself or your baby, or cannot keep either of you safe, seek emergency medical help immediately and ask a trusted adult to stay with you and help care for the baby. Do not rely on a routine online enquiry for urgent support. Getting help is a protective step for both you and your family.
Further reading and care
For an individual assessment with Dr. Aishwarya Parulekar Pai, contact the clinic and confirm the appointment location before travelling.
Related reading
Perineal Stitches After Birth: When Healing Needs a Review
Caesarean Recovery at Home: Organising Support and Follow-Up