there is evidence that extra psychological
support during a subsequent pregnancy
reduces the likelihood of an episode of
postnatal depression.
two other types of preventative treatment
are currently used. one method involves
giving high doses of progesterone after
labour. the progesterone is given in
decreasing doses for eight days. the
mother then uses progesterone pessaries
until menstruation starts again. the
other method involves the use of anti-
depressants in late pregnancy, usually in
the last three weeks. Please consult your
doctor for further information.
it is important to remember that all mothers
recover from postnatal depression. As
you start to recover, the bad days get
fewer and less upsetting and the good
days increase. gradually the bad days
disappear completely.
There is help available!
For further information, please contact
the Emotional Wellness Case Manager on
0860 100 544.
CHAPTER 5: PrEvEntion
17
