Understanding Postpartum Depression & the Baby Blues

14 Jul

Navigating Postpartum Emotions

After childbirth, it's common for new mothers to experience a range of emotions, including feeling sad, weepy, anxious or overwhelmed. This period, often referred to as the "baby blues," typically lasts for a few days to two weeks. The baby blues usually strike within the first few days after delivery, coincides with your milk coming in and is deeply influenced by hormonal changes, anxiety about caring for a new baby, and lack of sleep.

You should have seen how puffy my eyes and face were from crying on Day 3 Postpartum- I was virtually unrecognisable.

Once the baby blues passes, you may experience some or many signs of postpartum depression. It is really important to be brave and ask for help if you experience this. Postpartum Depression and Anxiety is one of the very reasons Borne was started and we are here to help guide and support you through this sometimes very challenging journey through Motherhood.

Let Us Reassure You

Let’s Normalise Your Feelings: These emotions are normal and usually temporary. Simply knowing that sometimes it is apart of the process, and there is nothing you can do to prevent or change it can help as you allow your hormones to balance out.
On Being Vigilant: If these feelings persist for more than two weeks, it’s essential to speak up and/or seek medical advice. Waiting for the standard postpartum visit might not be ideal, as postpartum depression (PPD) can develop anytime from birth and within the first year after birth.

Signs of Postpartum Depression

PPD is more intense and longer-lasting than the baby blues. Symptoms include:

Persistent sadness, depression, or frequent crying
Irritability and restlessness
Extreme fatigue and low energy
Physical symptoms like headaches, chest pains, and heart palpitations
Sleep disturbances (insomnia or excessive sleep)
Changes in appetite (leading to weight loss or gain)
Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
Overwhelming worry about the baby or lack of interest in the baby
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
Lack of interest in activities previously enjoyed
Thoughts of self-harm or harming the baby: sometimes these can be “intrusive thoughts” (which 50% of postpartum mothers experience), but it is really important to let your doctor or care provider know if you are having these thoughts

Importance of Early Detection

Many women feel ashamed or guilty about their symptoms and may not voice their struggles. It’s crucial for those around them, including family, friends and carers, to be observant and proactive in recognising signs of PPD.

Causes of Postpartum Depression

Several factors can contribute to PPD, including:

Hormonal Changes: A significant drop in estrogen and progesterone levels after childbirth may trigger depression.
Genetics: A family history of depression increases the risk.
Brain Chemistry: Changes in brain structure or function play a role.
Thyroid Levels: Postpartum drops in thyroid hormone levels can cause depression-like symptoms. A simple blood test can diagnose this, and thyroid medication can help.
Past Experience: If you have had depression, anxiety or OCD in the past (before or during pregnancy), it is really important to have a postpartum plan and have a list of signs you and your family can look out for.

Impact of Postpartum Depression

PPD is a serious condition that is manageable. It often has far-reaching effects:

On the Mother: There is a risk of self-harm or harm to the baby. We want mothers to feel supported and get help when they are suffering.
On the Infant: Potential delays in language development and issues with emotional bonding.
On the Partner: Emerging research indicates that 1 in 10 new fathers may also experience depression, which can affect their ability to parent effectively and the baby's development.

Final Thoughts

The baby blues are a normal part of postpartum recovery, typically beginning a few days after birth and resolving within two weeks. However, if symptoms persist or intensify, it may indicate postpartum depression, a condition that requires attention and care. Knowing that with support you will get through this is really important to remember. By staying informed and vigilant, we can support new mothers in navigating this challenging period, ensuring both their well-being and that of their families.

For more resources and support, reach out to our team at Borne, your healthcare provider or local support groups. Remember, you are not alone, and help is available. At Borne, we can get you in touch with our specialist GP and also refer you to our Psychologist.

Australian Resources

Cope (Centre of Perinatal Excellence): Cope provides support for the emotional challenges of becoming a new parent & resources for perinatal health professionals.

PANDA: Panda is dedicated to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of expecting, new and growing families.

Gidget: Gidget Foundation Australia exists to support the emotional wellbeing of expectant and new parents to ensure they receive timely, appropriate and specialist help.

Remember, you are not alone in this. Getting help is truly a sign of strength, not weakness. Once you show your vulnerability, others will come forward too, and you’ll realise just how common this is. I promise.

Love,