According to a snapshot survey that was commissioned by the Royal College of Midwives and Netmums, 80% of women with depression in pregnancy also suffer from postnatal depression after the birth.
260 mothers with antenatal depression were surveyed. It was reported that women who had depression while they were pregnant were found to be at a greater risk of mental health problems more so than women who suffer from depression after their pregnancy only.
The survey results found that a higher proportion of the women were depressed during their second pregnancy compared to the proportions who were depressed during their first.
It was reported that only 22 percent of the women who reported feeling symptoms of depression during pregnancy sought help from their doctors or midwives.
This is the latest in the string of research that has established how an expectant mother’s mental health has impacted their health as well as the health of their babies and children.
The Department of Health has finally announced that there will be £25 million made available to improve maternity facilities for mothers and babies. Additionally, some of the funds will be spent improving the information expectant parents receive about recognizing signs of depression during and after pregnancy.
