新的基因检测技术能预测产后抑郁

They are close now, but it's taken the best part of three years for Rachael Dobson to recover from postnatal depression that was so severe it might have ended in tragedy. She wanted little to do with Andreas when he was born. The smiles were for the camera, inside she felt useless as a mom, and as the sense of hopeless grew, she considered suicide, or even harming her son.

-I remembered him crying, ups and lows. I think I tried every tip books, you can possibly think of, feeding, winding, changing his nappy, and I just, 'cause he just wouldn't be quiet, I just started to get feelings that what if I smother him. At least he would be quiet then and I am able to sort myself out. But then so for a split second, you may get scared of yourself, because how can you think of that about a vulnerable baby?

The answers could lie in the genes. In a world first research of identifying key genetic changes that make postnatal depression between 3 and 5 times more likely. The scientists have developed a simple blood test that can be done in the early pregnancy that identifies women at risk, so they can be given psychological support before their baby is even born.

-It is extremely important, because with clearly these evidences that if you can identify women at risk early, you could be able to treat early or take measures early in order to prevent or stop the process or the disease.

One in seven women suffers the postnatal depression to some degree. The research of University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust suggest that the genetic changes lead to hormonal disruption that leaves women vulnerable to stress and anxiety, and finally depression.

Researchers are now hoping to refine the tests still further. Ultimately, they hope to use robots like this to screen all pregnant women for as little as 10 pounds a time, and the test could be ready within five years.

Rachael says the test could help prevent other mums suffering as she did. Support from her family and health visitor eventually lifted her mood. Now, feeling stronger, she runs the Panda's Charity to help other affected women and she's thinking about having another baby.

-Before I was pretty adamant, I can get through it again, but I know now where I can get that support from, so I know if I did have another child, I could speak to people about it. And I think that makes a lot better.

The odd day can still be a struggle for Rachael, but her bond with Andreas couldn't be stronger.

Thomas Moore, Sky News.