Breast feeding and post natal depression

[Mounty4]

Hi, new to Mumsnet (highly recommended by a friend) and wanting some support. Just had my fourth baby and although I've suffered PND 3 times b4 was not expecting it to start so soon and so severely. Giving up BF is not an option as I'm passionate about it, but already realising that I need external help. Has anyone sucessfully used antidepressants, and not just felt numbed even more???? Am seeing health visitor this week and Dr soon.

sorry no experience of PND (poor you) just bumping this until someone else who knows what they are talking about comes along.

mounty - i am not one of those who know what they are talkig baout but wanted to lend my support. dd is 9 mths now and have had pnd pretty much from day 1. we are still bf and i have just started on ADs. i havent really found a huge change as yet but dp says he has noticed small differences so maybe they are. i am lucky to have supportive GP , HV and attend a special mum / baby team for it.
i think the best thing i done was admit that things were going wrong for me and asked for support.

good luck

Hi Mounty4,

I am breastfeeding my 6mo DS and am currently taking Sertraline (also known as Lustral) as I was diagnosed with PND in November.

I did get a little of the 'numb' feelings you mention, but they are starting to wear off now and I feel like things are getting 'clearer', if that makes sense? As if the 'numbness' was just a side effect or a teething problem as I got used to the ADs. For me, the numb feeling was preferable to the anger and despair and feelings of utter inadequacy that PND caused me. I've also been referred for counselling, which I am hoping will help.

I'm glad you are seeking help already - good luck and best wishes