Baby, Baby:a study of depression after childbirth: recovery, resilience and relapse second time round.

Abstract

Depression following birth has wide ranging impacts on the woman, her new baby and her family. Studies indicate that treatment has been effective in shortening the duration of depression however has been less effective at preventing the increased risk of experiencing depression following another birth. The purpose of this study is to explore in detail women’s and practitioners understandings of first time mother’s experiences of and recovery from depression and then focus on how the women prepare for and make sense of the experience of second time pregnancy and motherhood. It is hoped to develop strategies to reduce recurrence and impact of depression in women with young children. The author is at the beginning of data collection for this study using qualitative methodologies will be employed including focus groups of practitioners working in the field of postnatal depression and a longitudinal study where 20-25 women who have previously experienced post natal depression will be interviewed twice. Firstly, 3-6 months before birth, focusing on how women make sense of their transition to first time motherhood, and coping with/recovery from depression. Focus will then be on their expectations of second time birth and motherhood. The second interview, completed 3 months after birth, will focus on their experience of the pregnancy, birth and life with another child. Progress and results to date will be outlined and issues related to the study design and implementation will be discussed.