What are 'Baby Blues and how can I tell if its happening to me?

A It is estimated that half of all mothers suffer a period of mild depression called baby blues after the birth of a baby. Baby blues usually last for four or five days and then disappear.

During that time the mother may experience the following symptoms:

• Fluctuating emotions
• Crying for no particular reason
• Feelings of anxiety and tension
• Minor problems causing upset and worry
• Oversensitivity to remarks made by others
• Feeling unwell and having pains without a medical cause
• Feeling tired and lacking in energy
• Sometimes having difficulty sleeping.

Baby blues are caused by:

• The sudden hormonal changes in the mother’s body following the birth
• The rise in hormones to start the production of breast milk
• Tiredness due to the process of giving birth
• Responding to the needs of the baby twenty four hours a day
• Lack of proper rest and sleep in the early days after giving birth
• Worry and anxiety about common problems in babies after birth such as Jaundice and feeding difficulties

How to cope with baby blues:

• Trying to get as much rest as possible is helpful
• Being allowed to cry and having someone to share worries and anxieties with is important, especially someone who is a good listener and can show tact and empathy.
• Reassurance and praise can also be beneficial
  If your baby blues lasts longer than a week or you feel it is getting worse it is wise to discuss your feelings with your Doctor.

Frances Byatt-Smith RN RHV BA (Hons) Psychology

Reference: Perinatal Mental Health – Integrated Care Pathway – NHS Lothian

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