Pregnancy & postnatal mental health in Penang

When to get help

Pregnancy and the months after birth bring big changes. Feeling tearful and emotional in the first week or two after birth (the "baby blues") is common and usually passes. It's worth getting help if you notice:

• low mood, tearfulness or hopelessness that lasts more than two weeks
• constant worry about your baby, or panic attacks
• feeling unable to cope, or not bonding with your baby
• frightening thoughts that keep coming back
• trouble sleeping even when the baby is asleep

These problems are common, treatable, and not your fault. Fathers and partners can be affected too.

How Dr. Wong can help

• A caring, non-judgemental assessment
• Talking therapy, such as CBT or interpersonal therapy (IPT)
• Careful advice on medication during pregnancy and breastfeeding, weighing the benefits and risks for you and your baby. You decide together.
• Planning ahead for women with a past history of depression, bipolar disorder or other conditions who are pregnant or planning a pregnancy

Babies are welcome at appointments. Consultations are in English, Mandarin (中文) and Bahasa Malaysia. No referral letter is needed.

If you have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, or feel very confused or unwell, please call 999 or go to the nearest emergency department straight away.