Post Natal Depression question...

[linziluv]

I'm 10 weeks pregnant and having sleepless nights worrying about getting PND again. I suffered horrendous PND with DS1 and it wasn't until about 6 months ago that I felt normal again (DS1 is 2.6yrs)...I was adamant no more children as my fear of PND is so great but when I found out I was pregnant again (on pill so unplanned) my maternal instincts came in and knew there was no way I could terminate...I believe everything happens for a reason.
The doctor says there's no guarantees that I will get it again but there's a higher risk.
I'm interested in hearing from mums who suffered PND with first baby but not subsequent babies...or indeed women who've had it multiple times...may as well prepare for all eventualities!

Hi linziluv, I had PND after DS1 & didnt get it with DS2 or DS3 so there is hope for you.

You are at an advantage this time as if you were to develop PND you will recognise the symptoms early on & if you are treated quickly it is much less likely to be as severe or as long as with DS1.

As well as the MWs/ HVs who should be keeping an eye out for you have you got supportive family/ friends in RL who know how you feel & will keep an eye out for any signs etc & support you?

It might help you to do a bit of prevention work now, maybe think about some of the triggers that contributed to PND last time & how you can avoid them eg will you be isolated at home a lot & what can you do to help stop this happening again.

Hope you have a lovely pregnancy & everything works out fine.

Yes I plan on breastfeeding but tbh I bf first for 4 months and if anything it contributed! I felt like a milk bar and all I was useful for was feeding!
I also think maybe my problems were more circumstantial, such as mum moving to Wales, an interfering "jobs worth" HV didn't help matters either. I have lost all trust in HV and social services and I know I will not be as honest again.
I get on well with DPs mum, but they're a family that don't "get" mental illness.
I'm being referred to a MW specialising in supporting vulnerable women so trying to get support in place early. What I don't want to do is worrying so much that I "give myself" PND lol...
It's reassured me to know that you, mrsBig, didn't suffer with PND with subsequent babies.
Thanks for your replies x