Postnatal depression (PND) and breastfeeding

Being pregnant or caring for a new baby can bring many different feelings. It’s common to have ups and downs. But sometimes these feelings don’t go away or start to feel overwhelming.

If this is happening for you, you’re not alone. Support is available, and with the right help, many mums recover well.

Postnatal depression can look different for everyone. You might notice changes in how you feel, think or cope day to day.

You may:

• feel very low, sad or overwhelmed most of the time
• stop enjoying things you used to like
• find it hard to feel close to your baby
• feel tired but unable to sleep, even when your baby sleeps
• feel more anxious, irritable or on edge
• feel unable to cope or that you’re not a good mother
• have trouble concentrating or remembering things
• feel guilty, hopeless or lack confidence
• have intrusive or upsetting thoughts

If you notice these feelings are lasting or getting stronger, it’s important to reach out for support.

Breastfeeding and postnatal depression can affect each other in different ways. Every mum’s experience is unique.
For some mums, breastfeeding can feel comforting and help support emotional wellbeing. For others, it can feel stressful, tiring or difficult, and may add to feelings of anxiety or low mood.

There’s no single right way forward. What matters is finding what works best for you and your baby.

If you don’t feel the way you expected to feel during your pregnancy or after having your baby, it’s very important to talk to someone you trust. This could be:

• your doctor
• a child and family health nurse
• a counsellor
• a trusted friend or family member

You might also contact PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) for specialised support.

Postnatal depression is treatable. With the right care, most mums start to feel better and regain confidence in themselves and their parenting.

If you’re breastfeeding and need treatment, there are often options that support both your wellbeing and your breastfeeding relationship.

Many medications used to treat depression are considered compatible with breastfeeding. If medication is suggested:

• tell your doctor you're breastfeeding
• ask questions so you feel informed and comfortable
• your doctor may seek advice from a medicines information service if needed

You can also talk with an ABA breastfeeding counsellor for support around feeding decisions.

Sometimes symptoms can become more severe. It’s important to seek urgent help if you or someone you care about notices:

• thoughts about harming yourself or your baby
• feeling unable to keep yourself or your baby safe
• sudden or unusual changes in behaviour or thinking
• extreme withdrawal or distress

In these situations, contacting a GP, emergency service or crisis support line is important.

Many mums feel anxious, tired or low at times after having a baby. Postnatal depression is different. It lasts longer and can make everyday life feel much harder.

It can affect how you see yourself and your ability to cope. You might feel like you’re not the parent you hoped to be.
With early support, understanding and care, most mums recover and go on to enjoy their baby and their parenting experience.

• For help with antenatal or postnatal depression, contact PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia).

• For help with breastfeeding contact the Australian Breastfeeding Association National Breastfeeding Helpline 1800 686 268 

The information on this website does not replace the advice of your health care provider. 

© Australian Breastfeeding Association June 2026