PNDSA

PNDSA exhibited at the Baba Indaba in Cape Town on the 25th of July.  This show is aimed at pregnant ladies and parents with small children and it showcases all the latest and greatest baby and child paraphernalia.  Obviously our stand was slightly different as we had nothing to sell and we were not dealing with the most popular topic.  What I found incredible was people’s reticence to simply be informed.  We were handing out information brochures and the comments we received from a number of people were, “I’m fine thank you”, “I don’t need that”, “I don’t plan on getting depressed”.  While I completely understand the desire not to be depressed, would it not be in a person’s best interest to at least be aware of the signs and symptoms of PND?

So for those who want to know what to look out for:

• Are you irritable and confused?
• Do you feel like crying for no apparent reason?
• Do you feel exhausted all the time?
• Do you feel helpless, inadequate and unable to cope?
• Do you feel scared and panicky at times?
• Do you feel ashamed and guilty?
• Do you feel that you don’t know who you are anymore?
• Have you lost interest in everything?
• Are you unable to sleep the way you used to?
• Are you unable to eat the way you used to?
• Do you feel that you don’t have any feelings for the baby?
• Have you lost the desire for sex?
• Do you sometimes think of hurting the baby or yourself?

If you are unsure of whether or not you are experiencing Post Natal Depression, please speak to your Clinic Sister, Midwife, GP, Gynecologist or call our help-line.