After the birth of a baby, many new mothers experience what is commonly known as the “baby blues.” This is a normal and common reaction to the sudden change in hormones after delivery. For some women, however, these feelings of sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion do not go away and may even get worse.
This is called postpartum depression (PPD).
"Baby Blues" — or Postpartum Depression?
There’s no one size fits all when it comes to postpartum depression (PPD), but for many women, the symptoms can be debilitating. PPD can make it hard to take care of yourself and your baby, and can even lead to thoughts of harming yourself or your child. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, please reach out for help.
You are not alone.
Credit: www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org
What Happens When a Woman Has Postpartum?
It is estimated that about 10-20% of women experience some form of postpartum mood disorder (PPMD), with the most common being postpartum depression (PPD). While the exact causes of PPMD are unknown, there are several theories as to what may contribute. One theory suggests that hormonal changes during pregnancy and after childbirth can play a role.
It is thought that the drastic drop in estrogen and progesterone levels following delivery may trigger PPD. Another possibility is that the added stress of becoming a new mother can lead to PPD. Whatever the cause, it is important to seek help if you are experiencing any symptoms of PPMD.
Symptoms of PPD can include: feeling sad or blue most of the time, loss of interest in hobbies or activities that were once enjoyed, difficulty bonding with baby, withdraw from friends and family, trouble sleeping, changes in appetite, irritability or anxiety. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please reach out for help. There are many resources available to new mothers struggling with PPD.
Postpartum Support International (PSI) offers an extensive list of support groups and hotlines by state on their website: https://www.postpartumsupportinternational.org/. In addition, PSI provides an online forum where women can connect with others who are also struggling with PPD: https://www.theppdsupportpage.com/.
How Long Does It Take to Get Over Postpartum?
It takes a different amount of time for every mother to recover from childbirth and feel like herself again. For some, it may take a few weeks, while others may need a few months. However long it takes, it is important to give yourself time to rest and heal.
Here are a few things that can help you recover:
1. Get as much sleep as possible. This can be difficult with a new baby, but try to get at least 6 hours of sleep each night if you can.
If you’re breastfeeding, pump milk ahead of time so someone else can feed the baby while you sleep.
2. Eat healthy foods and drink plenty of fluids. This will help your body heal and give you the energy you need to care for your baby.
3. Take breaks when you can. Ask family or friends for help so you can have some time to yourself – even if it’s just for a short walk around the block or taking a hot bath.
4. Talk about how you’re feeling with your partner or another trusted person.
What Kind of Depression Do You Get After Having a Baby?
There are many different types of depression, and it is not uncommon for women to experience some form of depression after having a baby. The most common type of depression after childbirth is postpartum depression, which can occur anytime within the first year after delivery. Symptoms of postpartum depression can include feelings of sadness, anxiety, irritability, and fatigue.
If you think you may be suffering from postpartum depression, it is important to talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. Other types of depressions that can occur after childbirth include antenatal depression (which occurs during pregnancy) and perinatal depression (which occurs during the first few months after birth).
What are Postpartum Warning Signs?
It is common for new mothers to experience baby blues in the days and weeks following childbirth. However, some women experience more severe symptoms that can last for months or longer. This is called postpartum depression (PPD).
While PPD can occur at any time during the first year after childbirth, it most commonly starts within the first few weeks post-delivery.
There are several warning signs of PPD, which include:
1. Feeling sad, hopeless, or overwhelmed most of the time
2. Loss of interest in activities that used to bring joy
3. Feeling irritable, anxious, or angry
4. Difficulty bonding with or caring for baby
5. withdrawing from family and friends
6. Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
7. Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
8. Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Conclusion
After giving birth, many women experience what’s called the “baby blues.” But some women experience something more than that—they suffer from postpartum depression (PPD). According to the American Psychiatric Association, PPD is a type of clinical depression that can occur in the weeks or months following childbirth.
Symptoms include feelings of sadness, anxiety, hopelessness, worthlessness, and guilt. If you think you might be suffering from PPD, it’s important to seek professional help—untreated PPD can have serious consequences for both mother and child.