Many different feelings come with being a new parent. They can range from happiness and joy to unexpected sadness and feeling overwhelmed. “Baby blues” are very common after giving birth.
About 75 per cent of new birthing parents experience baby blues.
What are the baby blues?
In the first few weeks after giving birth, many new birth parents have mood swings, worry a lot, cry easily and have trouble sleeping. This is often called the baby blues. Baby blues are normal and are caused by changing hormones and adjusting to parenting. Baby blues don’t last long. These feelings usually begin a few days after birth and go away on their own within two weeks.
With baby blues you may:
- feel very tired
- have mood swings, from feeling happy to feeling anxious, worried or panicky
- cry for no reason
- feel unsure about how to care for your baby
Coping with baby blues
- Be kind to yourself - this is a time of many changes (body, mind, routines).
- People want to help. Don’t be afraid to ask for and accept help from friends and family. People can help you by bringing you a meal, doing your grocery shopping or cleaning your house.
- See our article, Tips for Self Care
- If you have concerns about how you are feeling, talk to your public health nurse, doctor, midwife, nursing station or health centre.
You can support someone with baby blues by:
- listening to how they are feeling
- helping with household chores
- taking care of baby and other children
- making meals
Did you know?
Baby blues should go away within two weeks. If the symptoms continue longer or get worse, you may be experiencing postpartum depression (PPD) or anxiety. You are not alone; it is important that you get help. Talk to your health-care provider, midwife, public health nurse, nursing station or health centre.
For more support you can call:
- Women’s Health Clinic, Mothering Program – 204-947-2422 ext. 113
- Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba, PPD Warmline – 204-391-5983
- Manitoba Farm and Rural Support Services toll free – 1-866-367-3276
