Will I get PND second time around?

Your questions answered by Elaine Hanzak of Greatvine.com

I want another baby but suffered badly from PND with my first child. Am I more likely to suffer from it second time around?

Possibly, but it is not certain because every pregnancy is different and just because it happened first time is not an automatic assumption it will happen again. There are ways to minimise the risk and give you more control and confidence that you will be well next time and you will have less fear and far more knowledge.

Support

It is vital to get your support team in place and ensure that in the early days after giving birth all systems are in place to allow you maximum time for rest, for yourself and your baby.

Even before you get pregnant reconnect with the health professionals and family and friends involved the first time and review what worked, what didn’t and what could have been better, e.g. medication, talking therapy.
Recall the early signs from last time and warn everyone to look out for them and to respond accordingly thus meaning a faster recovery.
Try to plan to give birth at a different time of year to make it ‘different’ from first time.
Have discussed and written plans in place for the birth and early days, for example, who will help to look after the first child.
Avoid any major stressors, such as moving house.
Ensure you keep physically well by eating properly, by taking gentle exercise.

Plan for the worst but expect the best! Use your plans to feel reassured and in control, have the support structures ready, think positively and visualise the happy pregnancy and motherhood that can be yours.

Elaine Hanzak

Following her own painful experience and recovery from the most severe form of post-natal depression, Elaine Hanzak advises mothers, health professionals and family support groups worldwide regarding principles of care for sufferers and approaches to treatment for post-natal depression. Elaine’s empathy and practical techniques have helped hundreds of women on the road to recovery. For individual advice and support from Elaine, book a private call at www.greatvine.com/elaine_hanzak