Navigating Postpartum Blues and Depression: Essential Insights and Coping Mechanisms

What are Postpartum Blues and Why is Crying Normal After Childbirth?

Many new mothers experience a period of intense sadness, unexplained melancholy, overwhelming fatigue, and a desire to cry and do nothing. These feelings, commonly known as the “baby blues,” are normal and typically subside within a few days. However, when these mood swings intensify and persist, it may indicate a more serious condition known as postpartum depression. According to the World Health Organization, 10 to 20% of women experience postpartum depression.

The “baby blues” typically occur 2-4 days after childbirth and last about two days, usually subsiding by the time new mothers return home from the hospital. Symptoms include acute sadness, unexplained melancholy, overwhelming fatigue, and a desire to cry and do nothing.

These feelings are caused by both physiological and psychological factors. Physiologically, hormone levels change dramatically after childbirth. The placenta, which acts as a “hormone factory,” stops functioning, leading to a sharp decrease in estrogen, progesterone, and endorphins, which affects mood.

Psychological factors also play a significant role. New mothers face numerous new problems, experiences, and emotions. Many fear they won’t cope with their new responsibilities. First-time mothers, in particular, may struggle with the sudden and immense responsibility for their child’s life. Additionally, reality may not meet expectations, as the baby may cry more than expected, which can be overwhelming.

Life changes completely, and the psyche needs time to adapt. Soon, women experience new joys and emotions that outweigh the initial difficulties and unpleasantries of the first days after childbirth.

Understanding Postpartum Depression and Its Differences from “Baby Blues”

Unlike the baby blues, postpartum depression is a serious condition that requires medical attention. Symptoms are more severe and include:

Intense feelings of sadness and loneliness
Increased tearfulness
Extreme fatigue and helplessness
Feelings of worthlessness, inadequacy, and unexplained guilt

These difficulties may begin as early as the third day after childbirth when the support mechanisms activated during childbirth fade, and the woman’s hormonal and emotional levels return to their natural state.

Preventing Postpartum Depression

Here are some strategies to help prevent postpartum depression:

Consult a Psychologist in Advance: While expecting a baby, it’s important to discuss your feelings with a psychologist. Involving the father in the pregnancy journey is crucial. He should have the opportunity to talk to a specialist about the woman’s psychological state during this period and how he can provide emotional support.
Establish Early Contact with the Baby: If the delivery goes well and there is early contact between the mother and the baby, the likelihood of depression decreases. This early contact is key to activating natural mechanisms for mutual adaptation.
Prioritize Sleep: Ensure you get enough sleep at least 1-2 times a week. Chronic sleep deprivation can contribute to depression. The husband should ensure that the wife gets enough sleep. A young mother’s sleep is very light, as she is attuned to the baby’s signals and is constantly tense. When a trusted person takes over her care, the woman can gradually relax and rest fully.
Take Walks in the Fresh Air: Ultraviolet light is essential. Walks where sunlight reaches exposed parts of the body, such as the face and hands, are beneficial for both the mother and the baby. The baby produces vitamin D, which helps prevent rickets, and the mother produces serotonin, which contributes to the formation of happiness hormones.
Feel Attractive: The husband should show interest in his wife as a woman and continue to pay attention to her, regardless of the baby. It would be beneficial to leave the baby with someone and spend time together every one or two weeks.
Have Personal Space: Everyone needs personal space. Having a baby is not a reason to lose this space. A woman should feel that she remains herself and still belongs to herself. She should be allowed to “go out for a walk.” Of course, the first three weeks, the mother may not even think about leaving the baby. But then she should start learning to leave the baby, preferably with the father. This helps build trust in the spouse as someone who can ensure the baby’s safety. The freed-up time can be dedicated to walks and self-care.
Restore and Expand Your Social Circle: In addition to restoring your previous social circle, it’s helpful to have at least one new contact with a mother of a child the same age as yours. This can help alleviate the feeling that your problems are unique. When a woman experiences something negative and learns that someone else is going through the same thing, it becomes easier for her. She feels that “she is in her right mind” and that everything is generally okay with her.
Communicate with Your Husband: Women often react by saying, “Leave me alone, don’t touch me, I feel bad!” and the man may feel helpless. It’s important to maintain open communication and support each other during this challenging time.