There’s a new app designed to help reduce stress during pregnancy and lower the risk of developing postnatal depression.  

Created by beyondblue and Smiling Mind, the free app features guided meditations that are voiced by Network Ten’s Carrie Bickmore.

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“At least one in seven women will experience postnatal depression and up to one in 10 will experience it during pregnancy,” said beyondblue CEO Georgie Harman.

“Anxiety conditions are thought to be at least as common as depression during this time.

“Even for those who don’t experience mental health problems, pregnancy can often lead to feelings of uncertainty and fear.”

The app has been designed by mental health professionals and is based on research showing the benefits of mindfulness – the process of not worrying about the past or future and instead paying attention to the present moment.

To download the free Mind the Bump App visit the App Store.

* Post and Antenatal Depression Associations helpline 1300 726 306; beyondblue helpline 1300 22 4636.