Information for New Moms and Pregnant Women

Baby Blues

For many new moms, the change in hormones, the stress of labor and delivery and the change in schedule when a new baby arrives can make them feel tired, crabby and a bit down… more commonly known as the “baby blues.” Some extra pampering, a healthy diet and some rest can make them feel better.

Tips:

• Take care of yourself
• Stay home and rest
• Take a relaxing bath or shower
• Use relaxation and breathing exercises
• Avoid unnecessary trips and appointments
• Let others help you with errands and chores
• Eat small, frequent meals
• Limit the number of visitors in the first few weeks after you deliver
• Get lots of skin-to-skin contact with your new baby
• Take one day at a time

Consult your health care provider if:

• The blues last more than a few weeks
• You have trouble sleeping, eating or taking care of yourself or your baby
• You feel worried or sad

Perinatal and Postpartum Depression

True Perinatal and Postpartum Depression (PPD) is a clinical depression that affects approximately 20 percent of all childbearing women. It’s a real medical condition that can strike pregnant women and those who have just given birth up to the baby’s first birthday.

PPD might or might not strike women with many risk factors, or it can impact those with no risk factors at all. While it is a mystery what triggers PPD, we do know that it is treatable using self-help techniques, support from a new mom’s social network, professional counseling and even medical when needed.

Signs and Symptoms of PPD

• Constant fatigue
• Lack of joy in life
• A sense of emotional numbness or feeling trapped
• Withdrawal from family and friends
• Lack of concern for yourself or your ­baby
• Severe insomnia
• Excessive concern for your baby
• Loss of sexual interest or responsiveness
• A strong sense of failure or inadequacy
• Severe mood swings
• High expectations and an overly demanding attitude
• Difficulty making sense of things