Is It Postpartum Depression? The Baby Blues? What Is Wrong With Me?
Postpartum Depression? Baby Blues?
They said, “The joy you experience when the nurse puts your newborn in your arms will be instantaneous.” That happened. Wow! In fact, practically the entire hospital stay (sans labor) was pretty magical.
“Just wait until you get home!” they said. The joy continues to flow. Not only that, but maternal instinct would kick in! Surging through your veins, a current of never-ending know how mixed with a competent dose of stamina; overcoming new mom jitters, sleep deprivation and everything that comes with parenthood.
That’s what they said. But, as the days have turned to weeks, feelings of being overwhelmed seem to be replacing joy at every turn. Laundry is piling up… Not just laundry… Everything is piling up! And you’re still on maternity leave! You shudder to think what this place is going to look like when you have to go back to work! Trying to configure your living room to accommodate the baby gear and still bear some resemblance to a family’s living space seems to be impossible. Your eyes well with tears just thinking about it. The baby begins to cry and instead of rushing to the crib to scoop her up, murmuring soothing words, your head drops and a crocodile tear plops onto the floor.
You knew your life would change in a big way when you became a parent, but is it supposed to be like this? Something just isn’t right!
Getting emotional or moody at the drop of a hat is normal for new mom’s. It’s called the baby blues and is, largely, due to the fact that your body has just gone through a huge change. Hormones go haywire for a bit while they get back to normal. It can last for a few days or a few weeks after birth.
There is another possibility. It’s more serious and will require some professional help. Do not let the thought of telling someone how you are feeling keep you from seeking help! You are, certainly, not alone! One in seven new mom’s suffers with postpartum depression.
Postpartum depression typically starts two to three weeks after giving birth. It can last for 8-12 weeks. Here are some things to look for:
- Feeling empty.
- Feeling overwhelmed a lot
- Feeling you are not bonding with your baby
- Feeling constantly irritated or angry
- Feeling uncontrollably sad
- Inability to concentrate
- Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
If you are experiencing even just a couple of these symptoms, please, talk to your doctor. It will be worth the peace of mind! And, if your doctor determines you are suffering with postpartum depression, he will put the best plan in place for treatment. You will, soon, be feeling like you. ? And, it will be you getting into your brand new groove!
Being a mom is the most important job you will ever undertake and it lasts a lifetime! We, here, at NewbornCourse.com are committed to helping you every step of the way. Our courses are doctor approved so we are certain all information you are gleaning from your studies here is up-to-date. Our Mother Care Course might be the perfect place to start! Not only will you find information on the baby blues and PPD, but so many other topics!
And, Dad, we have good stuff for you, too!
Take advantage of a wealth of information, literally, at your fingertips! A 6 month subscription (just $39.99!) allows access to our site 24/7. We hope to see you soon.
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