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.

One in six new mothers is affected by post-natal depression. It’s vital to get support, says Áilín Quinlan.

THOUSANDS of new mums are suffering in silence because their postnatal depression goes untreated, according to a report.

THE chairwoman of the office of Post Natal Depression (PND) Ireland, Madge Fogarty, said she feels like she is “banging her head off a brick wall” when it comes to making the HSE realise the extent and importance of educating pregnant women and counselling them post-natally.