- 5 -
accessHealthNews.net
May 2024
Volume 10 | Issue No. 84
A wide range of emotions accompanies
the birth of a new baby, and not all
are joy and happiness. Feeling moody
is very common after having a baby.
Many studies have found that 80%-85%
of women experience postpartum "baby
blues."
What Are "Baby Blues"?
Confidence and pride one minute give
way to overwhelming anxiety and despair
the next. These rapid mood changes are
very common in the first two weeks after
giving birth and are often attributed to
hormonal changes. Typically, there is a
sharp decrease in progesterone, estradiol,
and prolactin immediately following
delivery.
Hormonal-induced mood changes
aren't the only symptom. You may also
experience the following:
Feeling overwhelmed
Anxiety
Reduced concentration
Irritability
Unhappiness
Worry
Exhaustion and/or trouble sleeping
Classic "baby blues" usually begin when
your baby is 2-3 days old and generally
continue for the first two weeks of your
baby's life.
Some tips to help navigate the "baby
blues" include:
Accepting help when people offer it.
Sleeping as much as you can and resting
when baby naps.
Continuing to eat a nutritious diet.
Getting out of the house for some
light exercise. Going for a walk in the
sunshine will boost your vitamin D levels.
Many studies have shown an association
between vitamin D levels and postpartum
depression.
Relaxing and focusing on taking care
of yourself and your baby. Don't worry
about chores, especially during the first
two weeks postpartum. Your body needs
this time to recover from the stresses of
childbirth.
You may be embarrassed or hesitant to admit feeling
depressed after your baby's birth. But postpartum
depression is not a weakness, a judgment of your
parenting ability, or a character flaw.
READ MORE
