High post-natal depression risk in expat new mothers

Expatriate new mothers are at a greater risk of postpartum depression than those who give birth in their native countries, says Abu Dhabi-based Dr Yousuf Abouallaban, consultant psychiatrist at the American Centre for Psychiatry and Neurology.

Speaking at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Conference, Dr Abouallaban cited a lack of support as the key contributing factor to postpartum depression in new expat mothers. He said that depression can become severe if mothers have an unsupportive partner or if they cannot access a support network elsewhere – something many new expats struggle with in the beginning.

“If…you are living in a foreign country where you may or may not speak the language, and where you may or may not have a reliable social support network, these expat hardships can compound the difficulties of the early weeks.” writes Reka Morvay at budapest-moms.com.

Post-partum depression (or PPD) is a serious mental health problem characterised by prolonged periods of fatigue, anxiety and irritability. This occurs as a direct consequence of the birth of a child and it is estimated that 9-16 per cent of new mothers will experience it. It can also affect new fathers, although this is less common.

Dr Abouallaban said that early diagnosis and treatment is paramount to recovery. “When a woman is not treated early, she could suffer relationship problems with the spouse, with the children, her job. It is the woman that usually pays the price.”

PPD affects a new mother’s ability to function normally, causing cognitive impairment that can impact infant care. As a consequence, the child may become withdrawn, ill-tempered or insecure. “Doctors should be more aware of this and pay attention to any signs of depression in the mother and advise her to seek help,” added Dr Abouallaban.

However, mental healthcare professionals have pointed out that the social stigma of mental illness stops many women from seeking medical help. This is especially the case for women living in a foreign country, who may feel uncomfortable talking to their expat doctors about mental illness.

According to a recent report, many people find it difficult to talk about mental health issues with their closest friends and family, let alone a new doctor in a different country who doesn’t know their medical history. Combine this with the pressure many women feel to be the perfect mother and it becomes increasingly difficult for women to talk about PPD.

“If you are an expecting or new expatriate mother, it is always wise to check the mental healthcare coverage of your expat insurance policy,” says Nic Brown, the Global Head of Distribution at Aetna International. “Ensure that full support is factored into your birthing plan and should you experience PDD symptoms, inform your doctor at the earliest instance.”

There are a number of active postpartum support groups for expat mothers in UAE, namely in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.  Alternatively, speak to your doctor about PPD prevention and ensure that your partner is fully aware of the signs and symptoms of PPD before baby is born.

The Obstetrics and Gynaecology Conference held at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, is the largest gathering of women’s health professionals in the Middle East.
 

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