Postnatal depletion (Serrallach), also referred to as Depleted Mother Syndrome (DMS) (Hanson, Hanson & Pollycove), postpartum nutritional depletion (Raffelock) or postpartum fatigue/exhaustion are a collection of health issues that mothers may experience after giving birth. Symptoms can include, but are not limited to: memory disturbances, difficulty concentrating, emotional fluctuations, hormonal imbalances, fatigue, joint issues, autoimmune and thyroid conditions, etc. This condition can arise from a combination of factors, but typically involves a lack of support to the mother, be it nutritional or physical.
I believe to end postnatal depletion we must first be clear about postnatal life and debunk some of the common myths about this precious time.