Many new mothers experience unexpected emotional turmoil after childbirth. Recognising the signs of postpartum blues and early counselling can help them recover and feel supported in their journey
Motherhood is often a blissful experience, but for many women, the period following childbirth can be emotionally overwhelming. Postpartum blues or baby blues affect a large number of new mothers, making them feel anxious, sad, and emotionally drained just when they’re expected to feel joy. Timely recognition and emotional counselling are essential to improve a mother’s well-being and strengthen her ability to bond with her baby.
Postpartum blues are temporary mood disturbances that occur in the first few days after childbirth. They typically last for about 2 weeks and affect many new mothers. The main causes are associated with sudden hormonal changes, physical exhaustion, sleep deprivation, and emotional stress related to adjusting to a new baby. The symptoms seen in women are sudden mood changes and crying spells, irritability, restlessness, anxiety, nervousness, inability to concentrate, feeling hapless and overwhelmed, and lack of sleep. The mood disturbances can interfere with breastfeeding as well, reduce physical contact, and delay emotional bonding between the mother and child, which can impact the early development of the child. Though these symptoms usually resolve on their own, they can escalate into postpartum depression if not addressed with timely support. Unlike postpartum blues, postpartum depression is more intense, lasts longer, and may require medical treatment. It can affect a mother’s ability to care for herself or her baby.
Dr Manisha Tomar, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Noida said, “Postpartum blues are more common in women aged 25-35, but many mothers suffer silently. In a month, 3-4 out of 10 women who come with symptoms of anxiety, lack of sleep, restlessness, and mood swings are advised to seek counselling. They are also asked to consider other factors such as diet and exercise. After childbirth, the body goes through a whirlwind of hormonal changes, and at the same time, the emotional pressure of taking care of a newborn can become overwhelming. Moreover, the lack of sleep and reduced personal time, and it’s easy to see why many mothers feel emotionally vulnerable. The problem is not the existence of these feelings, but it’s the lack of conversation around them. Partners and family members are the ones who shall come in for support.”
Timely counselling
Dr Manisha also added, “Timely counselling plays a crucial role in managing postpartum blues. Talking to a trained counsellor or a mental health professional helps mothers understand their emotions and develop ways to cope. Simple strategies like giving mothers uninterrupted rest, supporting them with newborn care, and creating a non-judgemental environment at home can go a long way, without putting pressure. It’s also important to provide mothers with platforms to create support groups.