Postnatal-depression-and-bonding

Understanding the ‘baby blues’

Days after giving birth the ‘baby blues’ affect some mothers, here’s our guide on what to look out for

How and why the ‘baby blues’ may affect you

‘Baby blues’ is common after giving birth, here’s what you need to know

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The Baby Blues: Day 3 or 4 after giving birth

You might find yourself getting tearful on the third or fourth day after giving birth. You may suddenly notice you’re crying for no apparent reason, feeling utterly exhausted and, well, just not as elated and excited as you thought you’d be.

This is when your milk is coming in and your pregnancy hormones drop off rapidly.

You’re also coming down from the high of childbirth, and naturally feeling exhausted and possibly overwhelmed.

Most mums find that these feelings pass in a few hours, for others the ‘fog’ usually lifts in a couple of days.

In the meantime, get lots of support, reassurance (and cake!) from your partner, family and friends.

Try to get as much rest as you can, and don’t turn down people’s offers of help because you feel you should be able to cope. Your body has just been through a huge experience, and it needs time to adjust. Be kind to it!

If you’re still feeling really low after two weeks or more, then you may need extra support, so do talk to your health visitor or GP.


Understanding the ‘baby blues’