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Recognising the ’baby blues’

The ‘baby blues’ is a mild, short experience of unhappiness which can occur during the first few days or weeks after giving birth. During the first week after the delivery up to 80% of mothers will experience the “baby blues”. They will disappear within a few weeks, and won’t cause major problems in how you are able to live your life.

It’s usually a time of extra sensitivity and symptoms include feelings of sadness, crying, exhaustion and mood swings. It’s a reaction that’s thought to be due to the feelings of anti-climax after the emotionally charged experience of giving birth. The symptoms normally disappear within two weeks without requiring specific treatment apart from understanding, support, skill, and practice.

In short, some depression, tiredness, and anxiety may fall within the ‘normal’ range of reactions to giving birth. If symptoms last longer than 7-10 days, talk to your Public Health Nurse or GP.