Birth of the blues: Need for swift response to post-natal depression

Many cases of perinatal and postnatal depression go undiagnosed due to a lack of continuity of midwifery care. The long-term consequences can be devastating, writes Geraldine Walsh.

Pregnancy is an emotional time. There is an expectation that women should be happy and excited about their new arrival. The reality is that one in six pregnant women are at risk of some form of depression during their pregnancy or after their baby is born.

Perinatal and postnatal depression (PND) affect women in different ways, but the symptoms can arise at any stage. A recent paper published in the journal Midwifery by Ursula Nagle, mental health support midwife at Rotunda Hospital in Dublin and DCU lecturer Mary Farrelly explored the views and experiences of women when discussing or seeking help for mental health issues during pregnancy.