After giving birth a woman goes through a myriad of emotions. The drop in hormones at such a rapid rate after giving birth can trigger feelings of depression. It is not uncommon for a woman to go through many emotional changes as she encounters the changes in her life a baby brings. Some women feel unattractive, some are still experiencing pain or had difficult births, and some may have relationship problems which can contribute to feelings of depression. For many these feelings subside yet others experience a more serious depression called postpartum depression. What are the differences?
Baby Blues
The baby blues are a normal part of new motherhood. A vast amount of women will experience this mild form of depression. The cause is most likely the hormone drop experienced after giving birth. You may find yourself not a joyful as you would have expected. You may experience mood swings, anxiety, trouble sleeping, difficulty concentrating, irritability, or cry easily. There is no treatment necessary for the baby blues. Symptoms should subside within a few days to a few weeks. Give yourself some time to rest and allow the help of friends and family for the first week after coming home from the hospital.
Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression has many of the same symptoms as the baby blues. In fact, it starts out the same way except in time the symptoms are more intense and do not subside in a few days to a few weeks. Postpartum depression should not be ignored and needs treatment by a professional. It can develop soon after giving birth or hit suddenly months later. It is important to seek help immediately if you or someone you know experiences the symptoms.
Symptoms of Postpartum Depression
Lack of interest in the baby
Feelings of suicide
Negative feelings or harmful feelings toward the baby
Withdrawal from family and friends
Sleeping more or less than normal
Severe mood swings
Loss of appetite
Feeling guilty or shame
A rare condition called postpartum psychosis also exists. It normally sets in within the first few weeks of giving birth. The symptoms or postpartum psychosis are even more severe than postpartum depression. Symptoms include: hallucinations, delusions, attempts at harming the baby, suicide attempts, paranoia, severe and rapid mood swings, confusion, odd behavior, and refusing to eat or sleep.
If any symptoms of postpartum psychosis are experienced then help needs to be called in immediately. If symptoms appear to be more like the baby blues but do not subside in two weeks, grow more intense, or make it difficult to function daily then call a doctor right away.