6 Common Myths About Postnatal Depression, Debunked

Postnatal depression affects about one in seven women after childbirth. Despite how common it is, misconceptions about what it looks like and who it affects keep many people from recognizing it or seeking help. 

Some of those myths make new parents feel isolated or ashamed when they’re struggling, which only makes recovery harder.

At The Birth Center of New Jersey in Union, New Jersey, our certified professional midwives monitor mental health alongside physical recovery during the postpartum period. We help you distinguish between normal postpartum adjustment and symptoms that need treatment.

Here are some of the most persistent myths about postnatal depression and what the reality looks like.

Myth #1: Postnatal depression is just hormones

Hormones do play a role in postnatal depression, but they’re not the whole story. Estrogen and progesterone drop sharply after delivery, which affects neurotransmitters that regulate mood. 

But postnatal depression also has roots in sleep deprivation, physical recovery from birth, social isolation, relationship stress, financial pressure, and a history of anxiety or depression.

Myth #2: Postnatal depression only happens after the first baby

Postnatal depression can develop after any birth, regardless of how many children you already have. In fact, having multiple young children at home, limited support, or a previous history of postnatal depression increases your risk.

Some women sail through their first postpartum period and struggle deeply after their second or third baby. The circumstances surrounding each birth are different, and what felt manageable with one child can become overwhelming with another.

Myth #3: Postnatal depression means you don’t love your baby

Postnatal depression doesn’t prevent you from loving your baby. Many people with postnatal depression feel intense love for their child alongside feelings of sadness, anxiety, detachment, or hopelessness. Those emotions can coexist without canceling each other out.

Myth #4: Postnatal depression always starts right after birth

Postnatal depression can begin within the first few weeks after delivery, but it can also start months later. Some people don’t notice symptoms until they’re several months postpartum, particularly if they return to work, stop breastfeeding, or experience a major life change.

The postpartum period technically extends up to a year after birth, and postnatal depression can develop at any point during that time.

Myth #5: Taking medication means you’re failing

Antidepressants are a legitimate treatment option for postnatal depression, and taking them doesn’t mean you’ve failed or are taking the easy way out. For moderate to severe postnatal depression, medication often provides the stability needed to engage in therapy, care for your baby, and function day to day.

Many antidepressants are also compatible with breastfeeding. If you’re concerned about medication while nursing, our team can help you weigh the risks and benefits based on your specific situation.

Myth #6: Postnatal depression only affects mothers

Postnatal depression can affect non-birthing parents, too. Research suggests that about 10% of new fathers experience postnatal depression, often around the same time their partner is struggling. 

The symptoms look similar — persistent sadness, irritability, withdrawal, difficulty bonding with the baby, and loss of interest in activities that used to bring joy.

Signs that warrant evaluation for postnatal depression

If you’re experiencing any of these for more than two weeks, talk to your midwife or health care provider:

• Persistent sadness or crying
• Difficulty bonding with your baby or feeling detached
• Intrusive thoughts about harm coming to your baby or yourself
• Extreme anxiety or panic attacks
• Sleep problems beyond what your baby’s schedule explains
• Loss of appetite or overeating
• Feeling hopeless, worthless, or like your family would be better off without you
• Inability to enjoy things that used to bring you pleasure

Postnatal depression is treatable, and getting help early makes recovery faster and more complete.

Get support for postnatal depression

Postnatal depression doesn’t mean that you're doing something wrong or you’re not cut out for parenthood. It’s a medical condition that responds to treatment, and reaching out for help is the first step toward feeling like yourself again.

At The Birth Center of New Jersey, we monitor mental health during postpartum visits and connect you with resources when you need them. To schedule a postpartum appointment or discuss your mental health, call our office at 908-627-4455 or book a visit online.