Baby Blues or Something More?
Being a new mom is supposed to be exhausting and overwhelming, right? But why do I feel so sad? Is this normal?
Due to hormones, fatigue, birth trauma, unanticipated interventions, and medical conditions, not to mention a major life change, many new moms (over 50%) experience baby blues and as many as 20% experience perinatal anxiety/depression. How can you tell the difference, and more importantly, what should you do you?
Baby Blues
Usually presents in the first few days after childbirth and can last 1-2 weeks
Can involve feelings of sadness, crying for no apparent reason, indecisiveness, and mood swings
Typically resolves with supportive care in the first couple of weeks
Postpartum Anxiety/Depression
Most common in the first few weeks, but can occur any time during the 1st year following childbirth
Can involve many of the same symptoms as baby blues, but may also include anger, guilt, anxiety, depression, and despair that may interfere with daily activities
Treatment is available and is so important
Remember, your body is undergoing many hormonal changes during pregnancy as well. For some women, these symptoms show up even before your baby arrives.
Feelings of anxiety, sadness, depression, and despair can be very common in the perinatal and postpartum periods. In fact, so many moms struggle with these symptoms, we often think of them as “normal”, but just because something is common doesn’t make it normal.
What should you do if you experience these symptoms?
Talk to your spouse, partner, trusted friend, etc. Everyone needs support, especially during this season.
Call your OB to discuss treatment options. There are many medications for anxiety and depression that can be taken during pregnancy/breastfeeding.
Consider therapy options. Finding a trusted therapist to help you process these major adjustments can be invaluable.
If you’re struggling with breastfeeding, reach out to your lactation consultant for help. Studies have shown that breastfeeding may actually reduce the occurrence of postpartum depression. However, if things aren’t going as you hoped, we are here to help you!
Remember, taking care of your mental health is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your baby.
For the mom who is currently fighting this battle, help is available and you are not alone. It can be so hard to reach out when you are hurting, but you don’t have to suffer in silence.
Click the link below to learn more.
