The birth of a baby is a major life event, and with that comes many emotions. You may experience both emotional highs and lows during the first weeks after birth. It's normal for new mothers to experience the "baby blues" and to have mood swings that may include feelings of joy, sadness, guilt, worry, helplessness, enthusiasm or anxiety.
The demands of pregnancy, labor and birth, hormone changes, body changes and lack of sleep cause women to become physically and emotionally exhausted. Also the spotlight shifts from you to the baby. You are no longer the center of attention with much pampering and coddling - this can make you feel isolated and unimportant.
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Tips to prevent or cope with the "baby blues"
Postpartum depression - what is it?
Signs of postpartum depression
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Tips to prevent or cope with the "baby blues"
- Be realistic about your expectations for yourself and your baby.
- Give yourself time to adjust to your new role.
- Get as much rest as possible - nap when your baby does and do not feel guilty about it.
- Make time for you and your partner.
- Trust yourself and your instincts.
- "Bonding" with your baby is often not immediate; it is a learning process. The bond will develop gradually. Cuddle and stroke your baby - it may be what you both need.
- Ask for help.
- Get support from your family and friends - do not isolate yourself.
- Limit visitors if this tires you.
Although this is unpleasant, the "baby blues" feelings go away in 1 to 2 weeks. You will need a lot of emotional support and help with the baby and chores. If the blues interfere with your normal functioning at any time, or if these feelings last longer than two weeks, call your doctor.
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Postpartum depression - what is it?
Postpartum depression is a more serious condition than the "baby blues." Each woman has different symptoms. Symptoms range from mild to severe and symptoms can last a few weeks or up to a year.
The exact cause for postpartum depression is unknown, but it is believed to be caused by several things, such as hormone changes, stress, marital strife, the changing of roles (spouse and new parent) and family history of mental illness, especially postpartum depression.
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Signs of postpartum depression
The most common symptoms of postpartum depression are:
- mood swings
- uncontrolled crying with no known cause
- irritability
- feelings of guilt
- sadness
- anxiety or panic attacks
- anger or resentment
- feelings of isolation
- hopelessness
- fatigue or exhaustion
- not able to sleep
- sleeping a lot, even if baby is awake
- appetite changes
- low sex drive
- low self-esteem
- memory loss
- poor concentration / confusion
- feeling emotionally numb
- extreme concern for your baby
- lack of interest / feelings for your baby
- a fear of harming your baby
- inability to care for your baby or yourself
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When to call your doctor
Call your doctor if:
- Symptoms last longer then two weeks
- You are not able to function normally - you can't cope with everyday situations
- You are feeling extremely anxious, scared, and panicked most of the day
Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY if:
- You have hallucinations and delusions about yourself or your baby
- You have thoughts about hurting yourself or your baby
These are emergency situations.
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Treatment
Postpartum depression is treated differently depending on the type and severity of the woman's symptoms. The first step in treatment is to resolve immediate problems, such as sleep and appetite changes.
Treatment may include:
- Psychotherapy - Talk therapy that may include the new mother and/or the family and spouse.
- Medicine - Such as hormonal treatments, antidepressants and/or anti-anxiety medicines -- be sure to tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding.
- Support - Support groups can provide useful information along with ideas about how to cope with day-to-day stresses. Talk to and lean on friends, family and other new mothers - it will help to share your feelings and experiences.
- Time for yourself - Get out of the house every day, even if it's just for a walk around the block. Reach out to supportive family and friends for both emotional and household help. Don't try to do everything yourself.
- Exercise - Exercise works well to lift all kinds of depression. Once you've recovered physically from giving birth, try to get some exercise every day.
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