Chinese version: 产后情绪低落

Baby Blues Postpartum
or Postpartum Depression

Baby Blues Postpartum - Don't worry you can help yourself

Giving birth is one of the happiest moments in life so why some moms feel sad after childbirth?

After giving birth to my first child I cried for almost two weeks, apparently for no reason. I suffered from a condition called "Baby Blues Postpartum".

Many new moms experience the Baby Blues after delivery. However, some women may experience a deeper depression which lasts much longer. This is called Postpartum Depression.

The Baby Blues Postpartum is a common temporary psychological state right after childbirth that peaks 3-5 days after delivery and lasts from several days to 2 weeks.

Baby Blues are not considered an illness and do not interfere with your ability to care for your child.

Typical symptoms for Baby Blues:

You may have sudden mood swings, feeling very happy, then very sad.

Crying for no apparent reason.

Feel impatient, unusually irritable, restless, anxious, lonely and sad.

Typical symptoms for Postpartum Depression:

		Losing interest or pleasure in activities you used to enjoy.
		Feeling sad, hopeless, and overwhelmed.
		Eating too little or too much.
		Sleeping too little or too much.
		Noticeable change in how you walk and talk-usually restlessness, but sometimes sluggishness.
		Extreme fatigue or loss of energy.
		Feelings of worthlessness or guilt, with no reasonable cause.

Difficulty concentrating and making decisions.

Thoughts about death or suicide.

If you have some of the symptoms or your Baby Blues don’t go away after 2 weeks do not hesitate – see your doctor.

Your doctor can ask you questions to test for depression. Your doctor can also refer you to a mental health professional that specializes in treating depression.

How can you help yourself?

Tell your partner, family and friends how you feel after delivery and ask for help.

It is important to discuss your feelings with your partner and allow him to express his feelings too.

Rest as much as you can. Sleep when the baby is sleeping.

Make time to go out, visit friends, or spend time alone with your partner.

Try to eat your meals on a regular basis.

		Drink a lot of water or fluids.
		It is recommended doing physical activity every day.
		Crying is allowed.
		Avoiding or postponing unnecessary activities.
		Talk with other mothers so you can learn from their experiences.

Taking care of a baby is demanding so get help from someone you trust.

Read more about postpartum depression and natural treatment options that are available.

Return from Baby Blues Postpartum to Care After Delivery

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