Breastfeeding Article:

Breastfeeding and Postnatal Depression

By Lorraine Cuadro

Lorraine Cuadro and her sons. Lorraine regularly writes articles for Mum Zone readers about various breastfeeding issues and aspects.

Postnatal Depression affects many mums all over the world, it's nothing new (although it may have been called different things over the ages) and it's certainly nothing to be ashamed of.

While we're not exactly sure what causes postnatal depression the symptoms include a loss of confidence or self esteem, memory difficulties and loss of concentration, feeling guilty and inadequate, morbid or obsessive thoughts, fear of being alone or of being with people, sleep disturbance which is unrelated to baby's sleep, loss of or too much appetite, crying, feeling unable to cope, irritability, anxiety and pain.

Almost all mums will feel at least one, if not all of the symptoms at some point before their baby turns one. The distinguishing factor seems to be how long these feelings last before there is any improvement on a mum's outlook and anything over 2 weeks can be an indication that a mum is in need of help.

Research shows contrary to popular belief and advice that breastfeeding does not increase a mum's chance of postnatal depression (Henderson et al 2003). But rather that because of the way breastfeeding affects a mum's hormones it is more likely to reduce the chances of postnatal depression (Mahrbacher 2004).

And while breastfeeding problems can be depressing, most of them are temporary and can be resolved with the right advice and support so that breastfeeding can continue to reduce the risk of postnatal depression for both mum and baby.

Breastfeeding can help a mum with postnatal depression in many ways:

• It helps her feel empowered and capable as she watches her baby grow knowing that her body is providing everything her baby needs,

• it gives her a chance to sit and relax by taking time out to feed her baby,

• the close physical contact of breastfeeding as well as the hormones released encourages a natural and mutual bond between mum and baby that may have otherwise been difficult to build,

• it helps a mum feel needed and wanted by her baby when she otherwise may be feeling that her baby would be better off without her.

At the same time, sudden or early weaning can be very difficult for a mum with postnatal depression as her hormones will go through abrupt changes. Changes in her baby's health and behaviour such as increased fussiness, allergies and other issues caused by the introduction of formula may also make the situation more difficult.

All new mums should be encouraged and supported to breastfeed, more so if they are experiencing or at risk of postnatal depression. Early detection, support, counselling and sometimes medication help most mums to recover from postnatal depression and enjoy being a mum. For more information or support visit Australia's national depression initiative at www.beyondblue.org.au/index.aspx?link_id=94.

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