A Guide To Your New Family's First Weeks - Meriter Health Services

Baby Blues
The most common, least severe and best known of
all postpartum reactions, “baby blues” are common
during the first few days, usually appearing suddenly
on the third or fourth day following delivery.
Estimates are that 50-75 percent of new mothers
experience a sense of let down after the emotionally
charged experience of giving birth.
These emotions are briefly unpleasant and usually
disappear on their own, often as quickly as they
came. Signs of the blues may include:
• Crying for no apparent reason
• Irritability
• Impatience
• Restlessness
• Anxiety
To help cope with the blues:
• Rest when your baby sleeps
• Eat healthy foods
• Take care of yourself
• Ask for and accept help from others
• Take a break from your baby and let someone
else care for the baby for a while
Postpartum Depression
New mothers may experience different levels of
postpartum depression. Postpartum depression can
occur within days or appear gradually, sometimes up
to a year after delivery. Symptoms may include:
• Nervousness and anxiety
• Sluggishness
• Exhaustion
• Sadness and hopelessness
Feelings After Birth
Following the birth of your baby, many emotions are normal. Often, you will feel excitement and joy, along with relief...
the long wait is finally over!
Sometimes, however, women may experience emotions that are unsettling, even frightening. Mothers may feel overwhelmed,
anxious or uncertain. Regardless of how much you prepared or how much you looked forward to your baby’s
birth, this first year may include unexpected “lows.” Such emotions can affect any woman who has had a baby, regardless
of how she felt after the births of previous children.
The following information describes the common “blues” that new moms may feel, and more severe reactions that may
require medical help.
“Of all human experiences,
birth is filled
with more emotion
than any other event.”
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• Appetite and sleep disturbances
• Poor concentration, memory loss and confusion
• Over-concern for your baby
• Uncontrollable crying
• Lack of interest in your baby
• Feelings of guilt or inadequacy
• Fear of harming self or baby
• Inability to care for self or baby
Mothers suffering from postpartum depression may
experience one or more of these symptoms in any
combination. They may change from day to day, with
good days alternating with bad. Symptoms may range
from mild to severe.
If you experience any of the above
symptoms for more than a week, let
your health care providers know. Tell
them how you are feeling. The sooner
you seek help, the sooner you will feel
better so you can enjoy your new baby
and your lives together.
Postpartum Psychosis
Postpartum psychosis, while quite rare, is a serious
emergency and requires immediate medical attention.
The psychosis usually develops within the first two
weeks after delivery.
Symptoms are much exaggerated and may include:
• Insomnia
• Hallucinations
• Agitation
• Bizarre feelings and behavior