Did you know? The “baby blues” (feeling down or not enjoying what normally makes you happy) are very common.
Postpartum blues develop in approximately 40 percent or more of women within a week of delivery. Factors that are associated with postpartum blues include a history of postpartum depression or a family history of depression, premenstrual mood changes, and stress around child care.
Postpartum blues are transient, characterized by several mild depressive symptoms such as sadness, crying, irritability, anxiety, insomnia, exhaustion, decreased concentration, and mood lability that may include elation. Symptoms typically develop within two to three days of delivery, peak over the next few days, and resolve within two weeks of onset.
But feeling sad doesn’t make you a bad or neglectful mother. If your depression lasts more than a few weeks or gets worse, you should see a doctor. You might have postpartum depression, a serious illness that needs treatment.
#challenge: read more about SRH so you can fully understand your body.
Medical Information Disclaimer
This information and content is not designed to and does not provide medical advice, professional diagnosis, opinion, treatment, or services to you or to any other individual. It is for providing general information for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or professional care.
Sources:
[1] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Reproductive Health and Depression [2] National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) – Postpartum Depression Facts [3] American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists – Postpartum Depression
