Baby blues

Many women get postpartum blues, also called the "baby blues," during the first few days after childbirth. They may lose sleep, feel irritable, cry easily, and feel happy one minute and sad the next. Hormone changes and the demands of a new baby, coupled with visits from relatives or other family needs, add to a mother's stress. 

Baby_Blues

What are the baby blues?

The "baby blues" usually peak around the fourth day and then ease up in less than two weeks. Symptoms of the baby blues include:

  • Trouble sleeping
  • Mood swings
  • Tearfulness
  • Anxiety
  • Sadness
  • Hopelessness
  • Irritability
  • Poor concentration

Support_Services

Postpartum mood disorders

In about 15% of women, the baby blues become a more serious condition called postpartum depression. 

If your moodiness or anxiety lasts for more than two weeks, or if you feel like life isn't worth living, talk to your doctor right away as you may have postpartum depression. 

You can also call the Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262).

Taking care of yourself

Many new moms feel down, anxious, or irritable during the first few days after giving birth. But there are many things you can do to help take care of yourself as you adjust to having a new baby.

  • Ask for help from others, so you can get as much sleep, healthy food, exercise, and overall support as possible.
  • Talk to your doctor before drinking alcohol or caffeine and taking other drugs or medicines.
  • Check in with your doctor. Close monitoring after childbirth is important. If you have an increased risk for developing postpartum depression, follow up with your doctor or midwife one to three weeks after giving birth.
  • Join a support group of new mothers. No one can better understand and support the challenges of caring for a new baby than other postpartum women.