Postnatal Depression and the benefits of post-natal exercise

It is believed that as many as one in six women may suffer from postnatal depression (PND), also referred to as post-natal illness (PNI), after the birth of their baby .Symptoms can become apparent up to two years after the birth of a baby. It is important that any mum who thinks she may have postnatal depression should go to her doctor and seek medical advice.

It is also believed that regular physical activity can help reduce the severity of PND symptoms and promotes a sense of well-being in new mums .Participating in a post-natal exercise class also reduces the feelings of isolation which many new mums can experience.Post-natal fitness also provides new mums with group support from other new mums who appreciate and understand what a tough time it can be.

Symptoms can include:

Please remember that postnatal depression can be treated successfully and there is no need for you to suffer in silence.Post-natal depression is an illness and nothing that you should feel ashamed about, you owe it to your partner,children but most importantly yourself to seek medical advice as soon as possible and start looking forward to a brighter happier future.

You may also find these web sites useful

• The UK .gov site on Postnatal depression
• The Association for Postnatal Illness