Pre- Natal Depression

Just wondering if Pre-Natal Depression exists and if so what can we do about it. I have been really down basically throughout my whole pregnancy. I currently have a 14 month old daughter and am 32 weeks pregnant now with twins. I cant look after my daughter as i dont have the energy and that makes me feel worse.

Any advice or information you can give me would be greatly appreciated.

Hi,

Thank you for your enquiry. It is very common to feel down and low about things quite often during pregnancy and sometimes even more so if you have another child already to care for. It is a time where you need to ask some assistance of your family and friends and perhaps to also find some childcare for your daughter for a break. If you feel that your problem is much more than this you need to ask for some assistance from your GP. A GP can refer you to specialist services for women experiencing similar problems to yours. They may also discuss the need for medication.

Best wishes,

Alex.

<a href="http://www.nswmidwives.com.au/">NSW Midwives Association</a>
Note: This information is not designed to replace that of your health professional.

I too have been feeling really depressed throughout this pregnancy. I have an 18 month old daughter and am 33 weeks pregnant. My midwife referred me early on to a counsellor, who has since sent me to my GP, who in turn referred me to Maternal Mental Health services. I was really reluctant to start medication for depression, but have been taking citalopram for a few weeks now and I feel I am coping better - my energy levels are returning gradually. I am now also recieving a lot more support and understanding from those involved in my pregnancy care. My advice to you would be to ask for help ASAP, as I really think my daughter has benefited from the help I am recieving, which in itself makes me feel better.