Feeling Low After Birth? Baby Blues or Postpartum Depression?

Becoming a mom changes your life in many ways. While it brings immense joy and happiness, the added responsibilities and sudden shift from a carefree life can also feel overwhelming and exhausting.

If you're a new mom feeling low, anxious, or drained, you might wonder if what you're experiencing is normal. Many moms go through emotional ups and downs after birth, and it’s important to recognize the range of feelings that come with this journey. Here’s what you need to know.

Understanding Baby Blues

Baby blues refer to a temporary emotional state that almost 80% of mothers experience shortly after childbirth. It's often caused by hormonal changes, exhaustion and the sudden shift in responsibilities that come with caring for a newborn. While it can feel intense, baby blues are generally mild and short-lived. They usually start 2 to 3 days after your baby is born and can last up to two weeks.

You may feel:

• Emotional and teary for no clear reason

• Irritable or anxious

• Overwhelmed or easily frustrated

• Tired yet unable to sleep well

The good news? Baby blues are temporary and improve with rest, support and time.

Baby Blues or Something More? Recognizing Postpartum Depression

Baby blues are common, but for some moms, the feelings are stronger and don’t go away as quickly. Postpartum depression (PPD) is more than just feeling sad or exhausted. It can make daily tasks feel impossible, bring intense mood swings and cause feelings of guilt, hopelessness, or even disconnection from your baby. 

Unlike baby blues, which usually fade in a couple of weeks, PPD lasts longer and may need support or treatment to improve. It can start anytime in the first year after birth and isn’t always easy to recognize. Let’s understand how it’s different and when to seek support.

With PPD, you may experience:

• Deep sadness or hopelessness

• Feeling disconnected from your baby or struggling to bond

• Severe mood swings or anxiety

• Feeling constantly overwhelmed or panicked

• Trouble sleeping or extreme fatigue

• Thoughts of self-harm or harming your baby (in severe cases)

When to Seek Help and What are the Treatment Options

Baby blues are common and usually fade within two weeks. Taking care of yourself also makes a difference. Rest when you can, eat well, move your body gently and lean on people who can support you. But if sadness, anxiety, or mood swings last longer or start getting worse, it may be more than baby blues. If daily life feels overwhelming, talking to a doctor or counselor can help.

Postpartum depression (PPD) doesn’t go away on its own, it needs care. Think of it like a deep wound; without treatment, it can get worse. Support often includes therapy, counseling and in some cases, safe medicines may be prescribed for breastfeeding mothers.

Seek urgent help if you experience:

• Persistent sadness or hopelessness

• Severe anxiety or panic attacks

• Difficulty bonding with your baby

• Thoughts of self-harm or harming the baby 

Remember, your emotional well-being is just as important as your physical recovery. The emotions may feel heavy, but you don’t have to carry them alone. Reach out to us today and get the support you deserve on your postpartum journey.