Many new mothers experience changes in their emotions after delivery. One moment they may be happy and the next moment they are crying. These changes in emotions are very common among new mothers and are thought to be due to hormonal changes, over exhaustion, stress, fatigue, and lifestyle changes that a new baby brings.
| It’s important as a new mom, a family member, and a friend to become familiar with the signs associated with the “baby blues” and postpartum depression. For your convenience we have provided a downloadable brochure about postpartum emotions that you can keep near by and also share with friends and family. |
 |
Your New baby: Information brochure on postpartum emotions |
The “Baby Blues”
These types of emotional changes are often known as the “baby blues.” In fact, 8 out of 10 new mothers experience some form of the “baby blues.” If you are experiencing these types of emotions they should go away on their own in about 2 weeks.
| Signs of the “Baby Blues”: |
| Crying |
Mood Swings |
Irritability |
Frustration |
| Short Temper |
Sensitivity |
Great Sadness |
Extreme Fear/Worry |
To help you get through this emotional time, talk with friends, family, and even your healthcare provider about how you feel. Support from friends and family will help you get through these changes.
However, if after two weeks the signs of the “baby blues” are still there or they have become worse, call your healthcare provider.
Postpartum Depression
If your “baby blues” are really bad, it may mean that you have postpartum depression. It is a common illness in new mothers and occurs in 1 out of 10 women after having a baby. The exact cause of postpartum depression is not known, but the good news is that there is help. The most important step to take if you notice any of the following signs is to call your healthcare provider.
Signs of postpartum depression include:
- Sadness
- Short Temper
- Crying
- Problems sleeping
- Feeling tired
- Changes in eating patterns
- Not enjoying the baby
- Thoughts about your own death or baby’s death
There are many ways to treat postpartum depression such as therapy, support networks, and medication. Don’t be afraid to discuss how you’re feeling with family, friends, and more importantly your healthcare provider.
Postpartum Anxiety
It is normal for new mothers to worry about their babies, but when worry take over your life it is not good for your or your newborn. Postpartum Anxiety is when a new mother experiences excessive worries or fears about their child or themselves.
Below are signs that a mother may be worrying too much:
- Troubling concentrating or remembering things
- Trouble making decisions
- Difficulty relaxing
- Afraid that something will harm her baby
- Afraid that she will hurt her baby
- Afraid to be alone with her baby
If you are experiencing these types of feelings, don’t be afraid to contact your healthcare provider. There are effective treatment options for postpartum anxiety.
Postpartum Psychosis
This is an illness that happens to 1 out of 1,000 women who have a baby.
As a friend or family member, if you notice that a new mother has any of the signs listed below, her condition has worsened and is now an emergency. The mother needs medical help right away.
- Becomes confused
- Is nervous or very quiet
- Hears voices
- Sees things
- Has thoughts about hurting herself or the baby
