Once you’re home you may find that you feel very emotional. Feelings of excitement and happiness may alternate with those of anxiety and worry. The joys of parenthood are unique and wonderful; however, women may also experience some emotional difficulties after giving birth:
• Initial Maternal Indifference: Four in ten mothers experience the common response of feeling indifferent toward their babies after giving birth. This response tends to occur within the first day, typically lasts three days and then resolves.
• Postpartum Blues: This common response occurs in as many as eight out of ten women, generally within the first month after giving birth. It may include symptoms of weepiness, insomnia, confusion, anxiety, irritability, and feelings of being overwhelmed and oversensitive. These “baby blues” have a minimal effect on the mother’s ability to function, and generally disappear on their own. Education, reassurance and support can help.
• Postpartum Depression: Occurring in up to two in ten new mothers, postpartum depression can begin before delivery or within 6 months after childbirth, and can significantly affect a mother’s ability to function. Symptoms Include:
- Sadness or depressed mood
- Less interest in most or all activities
- Anxiety
- Restlessness or slowed movement
- Hopelessness
- Feelings of worthlessness or inappropriate guilt
- Appetite or sleep disturbances
- Poor concentration or confusion
- Thoughts of self-harm or harming the baby
Professional treatment is highly recommended, and usually involves a medical evaluation, anti-depressant medication, psychotherapy and participation in a support group. Two-thirds of those who receive treatment feel better within a year.
• Postpartum Psychosis: Experienced by one or two new mothers in 1,000, this severe postpartum reaction involves extreme emotional and psychological disturbance within the first month after giving birth. The mother’s function is grossly impaired and immediate professional treatment is required to avoid harm to the new mother or child. For more information, consult your physician.
