If you do not feel an urge to weep in the initial days or weeks after giving birth to a baby, then consider it a good sign. Having a baby is a nerve-racking process irrelevant of the fact that you have waited for this day for so many years and that you adore your baby a lot. If you are a new mom, nevertheless, chances are you have experienced indecipherable episodes of frustration and gloominess.
You have just delivered a baby and you look forward to blooming in the joy of new motherhood. You had wished to welcome the baby with a festive spirit. But instead you feel very sad and frustrated. This might seem incredibly unexpected to you, but it is perfectly normal to feel this way. These are the symptoms of ‘baby blues’. ‘Baby blues’ is a common condition affecting almost seventy-five percent of the new moms on an average. There are several symptoms of ‘baby blues’, listed as follows:
- Feeling sad
- An urge to cry
- Frustration
- Detachment with the baby
- Loss of appetite
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Lack of focus
- Mood swings
What causes ‘baby blues’?
The precise cause of ‘baby blues’ is presently unidentified. However, experts suggest that hormonal changes taking place in women soon after delivery of child give rise to ‘baby blues’. The hormones of a new mom are all over the place, causing chemical alterations in the brain. Such chemical alterations give rise to mood swings and depression.
The process of childbirth also has an impact on the new moms’ mind and body. The arrival of newborn calls for a lot of changes and adjustments. New moms are unable to get quality sleep, making them irritable.
When do ‘baby blues’ begin and end?
‘Baby blues’ generally occur within three to four days after delivery. It may show up earlier if the process of childbirth wasn’t very smooth.
Symptoms of ‘baby blues’ usually fade away within two weeks after delivery.
Dealing with ‘baby blues’
It is very necessary to deal with ‘baby blues’ effectively. If ignored, ‘baby blues’ can give rise to a full-scale postpartum depression. Following tips are very helpful in dealing with ‘baby blues’.
- It is certainly not simple with a newborn for you to get enough quality sleep. But sleep deprivation aggravates the symptoms of ‘baby blues’. Ask your spouse and other family members to share baby’s responsibilities, so that you can nap when possible.
- Express how you have been feeling. Talk to someone whom you trust. Let out your frustration by means of words instead of letting it build up inside of you.
- Spend some ‘me time’ with yourself. Do breathing and yogic exercises. Meditation helps calm down a troubled mind.
- Eat healthy meals, preferably smaller meals four to five times a day.
- Take a break from mom duties. Go out in the early morning sun for a walk.
Support of family and friends can help you deal better with ‘baby blues’ and get back on the track of enjoying motherhood.
