When to be aware of a ‘baby blue moment’
A baby blue moment appears anywhere from 2nd to the 10th day after delivery, and can last up-to 3 days.
Unknown to many new mums, their bodies experience dramatic hormonal and chemical changes which makes them go through numerous emotions such as:-
- strange irritability,
- extreme mood swings
- weariness with insomnia
- down and teary
- uneasiness
When your body and mind feels different, it’s easy to get confused and in panic.
Why does baby blue happen?
The very reasons aren’t established yet, although it’s believed that some of our African culture worsen the situation. Women are believed to be the only home caretakers, this can be overwhelmingly demanding and strenuous. The additional work of providing a baby needs is a lot of hard work for a new mother both emotionally and physically.
Baby Blue versus Postpartum Depression
A continuously terrible mood swing, irritability or teariness that goes beyond two weeks after delivery calls for a medical check-up as it might have advanced into “postpartum depression”.
Postpartum depression is the most common afterbirth mental disorder women may experience in their first year after delivery. Find more about postpartum depression (PPD) here.
5-pointers for overcoming the baby blue state
Baby blue is a common occurrence amongst new mums that disappears on its own. without treatment. For relief, however, include this in your daily routine:
- Let your partner, family and close friends help.
- Adapt a ‘family routine’ for your other errands.
- Treat yourself nicely and free yourself from everyday duties
- Take good rests
- Join and bond with other new mummies and share your concerns with them.
- Eat well-balanced meals . Read more about meal plans here
- Don’t overwork yourself, take time to heal.
It’s important to know that you are not the only one going through baby blue and that it is not a permanent condition, if uncertain of any afterbirth circumstances do not hesitate to visit a health care center.
Disclaimers:
#Please note that development differs from one child to another.
#Content intended for educational purposes only, and should not be substituted for medical advice from your doctor.
Last reviewed January 2019
Sources: ppdkenya, caringforkids, pregnancybirthbaby, cope, pregnancybirthbaby, thebump, marchofdimes, whattoexpect
