PPD: When things don’t go as planned

ByMariana Van der Merwe

Most woman go into labour with hopes, plans, or at least a general idea of how they’d like it to go. But birth doesn’t always follow your script. And when that happens, especially if the experience was distressing or didn’t feel safe or supported, it can leave a heavy emotional imprint—one that sometimes leads to postpartum depression (PPD).

Why a Difficult Birth Can Lead to PPD

PPD is more than just the “baby blues”—it can involve ongoing low mood, anxiety, irritability, trouble sleeping, or feeling disconnected from your baby. While anyone can experience PPD, studies show that a traumatic or disappointing birth can increase the risk.

Feeling like you weren’t heard, or that things spiralled out of your control—like an emergency C-section, a long induction, or unexpected interventions—can leave you feeling lost, let down, or even like you failed (you didn’t, by the way).

So, What Can We Do About It?

You can’t predict your birth exactly, but you can prepare in a way that helps protect your emotional wellbeing, whatever happens. Here’s how:

  • Focus on flexibility: Instead of a rigid birth plan, try creating birth preferences. Think of it like a “hope for the best, prepare for the rest” approach.
  • Educate yourself broadly: Learn about different birth outcomes—not to scare yourself, but to feel informed and less blindsided.
  • Build your team: Talk to your partner, or care provider about what you need to feel safe and supported, not just physically but emotionally too.
  • Plan for postpartum, too: Organise meals, ask for help, and line up emotional support for after the birth. Many of us prep the nursery, but not our mental health.

If You’re Based in Swakopmund

For those living in or around Swakopmund, it can sometimes feel like local support for things like PPD or birth trauma is limited. But there are professionals in the area who can help, as well as broader networks that offer virtual or cross-border support. You might consider reaching out to local clinics, trusted psychologists, or online platforms that connect mothers across Namibia and South Africa.

After the Birth: If You’re Feeling Low

Even with all the prep in the world, birth can still be hard. And if you’re struggling afterwards, you’re not alone. It’s okay to talk about it, and it’s okay to get help.

  • Ask for a birth debrief with your midwife or doctor to understand what happened.
  • Reach out to someone you trust, or a professional. PPD is treatable and nothing to be ashamed of.
  • Be kind to yourself. You birthed a baby, and that is no small thing.

Helpful Resources

Final Thought

Birth might not always go the way we pictured it, but that doesn’t make it less valid or powerful. By preparing emotionally as well as practically, we give ourselves a better chance of staying well, feeling strong, and making peace with whatever our unique story turns out to be.