Healthspring World Clinic
Mood swings after the birth of a baby are not uncommon. While the “baby blues” are the least severe form of postpartum depression, it is important not to ignore the changes that are happening in your body. Many women feel confused about struggling with sadness after the joyous event of adding a new baby to the family and often don’t talk about it. But talking about these emotions, changes and challenges is one of the best ways to deal with the “baby blues”.
How often do women experience the “baby blues”?
About 70 percent of all new mothers experience some negative feelings or mood swings after the birth of their child. Often the symptoms of “baby blues” will hit forcefully within four to five days after delivery, although depending on how the delivery went.
What are the symptoms of “baby blues”?
Symptoms of “baby blues” include:
• Weepiness or crying for no apparent reason
• Impatience / Irritability
• Restlessness /Anxiety
• Fatigue/Insomnia sadness
• Mood changes/Poor concentration
What causes the “baby blues”?
It is thought to be related to hormone changes that occur during pregnancy and again after a baby is born. These hormonal changes may produce chemical changes in the brain that result in depression. Also, the amount of adjustment that comes after the birth of a baby, along with sleep disturbance, disruption of “routine”, and emotions from the childbirth experience can all contribute to how a new mom feels.
How long do the “baby blues” last?
The symptoms of the “baby blues” normally occur for a few minutes up to few hours each day. They should lessen and disappear within 14 days after delivery.
How can you take care of yourself?
There are several ways you can care for yourself if you are having the “baby blues.”
• Talk with someone you trust about how you are feeling
• Maintain a well balanced diet. Having a new baby may cause you not to eat correctly, and too many simple carbohydrates can make mood swings more pronounced.
• Get outside to enjoy fresh air and life outside the confines of diapers, feedings and spit up. Sometimes just a different view for a few moments can make a huge difference.
• Ask for help. Help with meals, other children, getting into a “routine”, any help that allows you to focus on the joy of having a new baby and not just the pressure of juggling it all.
• Give yourself time to heal from the delivery, time to adjust to your new “job” and time for feeding and sleeping routines to settle in.
It is important to remember that you are not alone in your feelings. If your symptoms last longer than 14 days, it could be an indication of a more serious condition, such as postpartum depression. Be honest with your care provider at all your follow-up appointments. Remember you are not going to shock them with your feelings.
