Dilemma of New Mothers: Distinguishing Between 'Baby Blues' and Postpartum Depression
Having a Baby: More Than Just Blissful?
The joy of birth doesn't always come with a glossy, sunny wrap. You've welcomed a bundle of joy into the world but are feeling less than ecstatic. Don't worry, friend, you're not alone! It's likely you're experiencing the infamous baby blues.
New moms are prone to a wave of hormonal, emotional turmoil shortly after giving birth. Ob/Gyn Erica Newlin, MD puts it simply, "Baby blues are very common. The statistics usually cited are around 70% to 80% of women will experience feelings of sadness or teariness post-delivery."
As much as you'd love to be basking in endless joy, it's only normal to feel overwhelmed. The postpartum stage throws a truckload of changes at you—from the physical upheaval to the mental and emotional rollercoaster. Not sleeping as much as you usually do isn't helping either. Baby blues can sneak up on you when you're least expecting it.
"The baby blues can result from lack of sleep, stress, and hormonal changes," explains Dr. Newlin. So, if you're feeling out of sorts, don't sweat it. Remember, you're not alone in this ride.
Baby Blues vs. Postpartum Depression
While baby blues and postpartum depression might seem like the same monster lurking under your bed, they differ in severity and duration. Time is of the essence when it comes to postpartum depression because not addressing it can lead to complications.
Baby blues tend to peak in the first week following delivery and usually resolve in the first two weeks. On the other hand, postpartum depression symptoms may linger for longer than two weeks, and become severe enough to impact daily life.
If you're experiencing feelings of intense sadness, hopelessness, or worthlessness that persist, you may be dealing with postpartum depression rather than baby blues. These feelings can even interfere with your ability to take care of yourself or your baby.
Coping With Baby Blues
The good news is baby blues are temporary and you're not a prisoner to them. Try catching some Z's whenever your newborn naps, indulge in happy or funny movies, open up to your partner, and practice deep breathing or meditation exercises when you feel overwhelmed.
When to Seek Help
If you're finding it hard to cope, remember, you're not alone and you don't have to suffer in silence. Don't be shy about reaching out to your doctor. "A lot of women suffer in silence because they're worried about being judged or they feel like they shouldn't be feeling this way," shares Dr. Newlin. But remember, it's not your fault, and it doesn't mean you're a bad mom or don't love your baby."
Key Takeaways
- Baby blues affect 70-80% of women post-delivery and are common.
- Lack of sleep, stress, and hormonal changes can contribute to baby blues.
- Baby blues symptoms peak in the first week and usually resolve in the first two weeks.
- Postpartum depression is more severe, lasts longer, and requires medical intervention.
- Therapy, support groups, and medication may be recommended for postpartum depression treatment.
- Seeking professional help early on is crucial for managing postpartum depression.
- In an attempt to cope with the stress and hormonal changes of new motherhood, you might find solace in watching happy or funny movies, as they can help elevate your mood.
- An important aspect of women's health during the postpartum period is mental health, and if feelings of intense sadness, hopelessness, or worthlessness persist, it may be more than just baby blues and could be a sign of postpartum depression.
- The science of health and wellness emphasizes the importance of self-care, such as taking time for deep breathing exercises or meditation when feeling overwhelmed, to help manage the emotional rollercoaster of the postpartum stage.
