Your body changes a lot with pregnancy and childbirth, both physically and mentally.
During pregnancy, the hormones estrogen and progesterone are at their highest levels. When those levels decrease significantly after giving birth, new moms can experience the "baby blues" — a whirlwind of emotions ranging from sadness to anxiety to irritability. These feelings are normal and can affect up to 80% of people giving birth.
However, if those feelings are more severe or don’t go away on their own, it could be a sign of postpartum depression, which can have long-term effects. Learning the difference between baby blues and postpartum depression can help you get the support and help you need.
Baby blues versus postpartum depression
The baby blues and postpartum depression share many of the same symptoms. The symptoms vary in intensity and how long they last. In both cases, experts believe hormonal changes are a contributing factor.
After childbirth, the changes in estrogen and progesterone are similar to what happens before your period. However, the changes — and the symptoms they cause — tend to be more extreme. Thyroid hormone levels can also change after pregnancy, potentially leading to mental health symptoms.
With the baby blues, you may feel:
- Anxious
- Impatient
- Moody
- Sad
- Unable to concentrate
The baby blues tend to go away on their own within 2 weeks. However, if the feelings stick around — or the symptoms are severe and interfere with daily activities — you could be experiencing postpartum depression.
Postpartum depression typically starts within the first 4 to 6 weeks after delivering but can develop any time in the first year after giving birth. Approximately 1 in 8 new mothers have symptoms of postpartum depression sometime in the year following childbirth. Unlike the baby blues, postpartum depression does not typically go away on its own.
How to know if you have postpartum depression
Certain risk factors may mean you are more likely to have postpartum depression. If you have any concerns, the best way to find out what’s going on and get help is to talk to your doctor or another medical professional.
Risk factors for postpartum depression
While postpartum depression can happen to any new mom, some people are at higher risk. Risk factors for postpartum depression include:
- Clinical depression (a depression diagnosis) before or during pregnancy
- Difficult pregnancy or childbirth, either with this baby or a previous one
- Difficulty with breastfeeding
- Experiencing financial strain or other stressful life events
- Family history of depression
- Having a newborn with special health needs
- Having an unplanned pregnancy or giving birth before the age of 20
- Having limited support from others
Postpartum depression symptoms
Postpartum depression may include the same symptoms as the baby blues, but they tend to be more intense. Postpartum depression can also cause you to feel:
- Disconnected from your baby
- Hopeless and sad
- Unable to function normally
- Unmotivated to care for the baby or yourself
- Withdrawn from family and friends
Feeling this way can affect how you sleep, eat and interact with your baby. If left untreated, postpartum depression can affect your child's development and your physical health.
In severe cases, you may even have thoughts of harming yourself or your child. If that happens, call 911 or go to the emergency department for immediate help.
What to do if you think you have baby blues or postpartum depression
If you have symptoms of baby blues or postpartum depression, talk to a healthcare professional, such as your primary care doctor, OB/GYN or your baby's pediatrician. They can assess your risk factors and symptoms to figure out the best way to help you feel better.
Your doctor may recommend treatment that includes:
- Individual therapy
- Medication
- Self-care guidance and support
- Support groups
The lifestyle changes that come with being a new mom can also affect your mental health. You likely aren't getting enough sleep, may not be eating well and may be nervous about taking care of a newborn. In addition to the treatments your doctor recommends, try these self-care tips:
- Ask for help from your partner, family or friends. People are usually eager to help, so let them!
- Avoid making major life changes, if possible, until you get used to life as a new mom.
- Find time to socialize with friends or other mothers, even if it’s just a quick phone call or chat.
- Follow prescribed treatment, such as therapy or medication.
- Rest whenever possible.
- Talk about your feelings with your partner, friends, a therapist or a support group.
Don’t feel embarrassed or ashamed about the feelings you experience. Talking to a trusted professional can help you get the treatment and support you need.
Contact us
If you are concerned about your health or your baby’s health, we can help. Find a doctor at MLK Community Healthcare or call (424) 529-6755 today to make an appointment.