Characterised by low mood in the postnatal period (within first 3 months)

Aetiology

• Usual onset 1-4 weeks postpartum

Risk factors

• Family or personal history of depression or anxiety
• Complicated pregnancy
• Traumatic birth
• Relationship difficulties (including domestic violence)
• History of abuse or trauma
• Lack of support
• Financial difficulties

Clinical features

• Low mood
• Anhedonia (lack of pleasure in activities)
• Anergia (low energy)

Management

• Mild cases may be managed with additional support, self-help and follow up with their GP
• Moderate cases may be managed with antidepressant medications (e.g. SSRIs) and CBT
• Severe cases may need input from specialist psychiatry services, and rarely inpatient care on the mother and baby unit