Postnatal mental health risk factors

Biological and psychological perinatal mental health risk factors

In addition to the challenges you may face as you adjust to life with your new baby, there are also a range of factors that can make some women more vulnerable to emotional and mental health conditions in the first year after birth.

These include a range of genetic and biological factors as well as your upbringing and the way you have learned to think, feel and behave in situations (also known as psychological factors).

Your health professional may ask you about these factors as a routine part of your care. 

Just because you may have or are currently experiencing one or more of these factors, it does not necessarily mean you will develop emotional or mental health problems in the postnatal period.

Given these factors can increase your risk, however, being aware and understanding the potential impact is important.

Planning for postpartum if you're at risk of a mental health condition

There are a number of steps you can take to proactively prepare for early parenthood if you've identified that you might be at risk. 

• Discuss your mental health history early with your healthcare provider so they are best placed to support you.
• Consult with your treating doctor around safe use of medications if you're choosing to breastfeed.
• Consider re-engaging with your psychologist/psychiatrist. Or seeking one with perinatal expertise via the COPE Directory.
• Let loved ones know about early warning signs and symptoms, plus how they might be able to advocate for you if required.
• If you have a partner, speak to them now about what support you might need after your baby arrives. If you have a history of mental ill-health, particularly bipolar disorder, protecting your sleep is paramount.
• Start building your village now. Who are the friends and family you can call on for support and what help might you need.
• Receive weekly updates to support your emotional and mental wellbeing with our free Ready to COPE guide.
• Complete COPE's health and wellbeing self-checks for stress, anxiety and depression to keep an eye on how you're travelling.
• Access our fact sheets for Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia and Neurodivergence in the perinatal period for specific recommendations.
• Try not put too much pressure on yourself. It's okay - crucial, even - to lower your standards around housework for a little while and to have clear boundaries around what you need to stay well. Gently reflect on expectations you might have of early parenthood to ensure you're realistic about any challenges you may face.

Postnatal mental health fact sheets for women and their families