Why do I feel down after pregnancy?
The most common cause of low mood after giving birth is the ‘Baby Blues’. This can affect up to three quarters of new mothers.
Following childbirth an individual with the Baby Blues may experience:
- Tearfulness
- Changeable moods
- Anxiety
- Sadness
- Irritability
- A feeling of being overwhelmed.
These feelings last from a few days up to two weeks and will tend to resolve on their own and without treatment. It is important to remember this if you are feeling low after childbirth.
Cause of Baby Blues
Baby Blues are believed to be caused by sudden hormonal changes that happen after childbirth. They can also be worsened by fatigue, a change in role and the physical strain following pregnancy.
What to do
It is important to try to take care of yourself throughout this time, using spare moments (however rare) to relax and sleep; and ensure you are eating well where possible. It is also key to be supported in this time whether by your family and friends or by your healthcare team. Speaking with others can help to get you through this difficult time.
If you are experiencing the symptoms listed above, your health visitor, midwife or GP would like to hear about this – at your baby’s early checks, so they can discuss concerns and ensure you are well supported.
Postnatal Depression
New mothers can also experience Postnatal Depression. This is rarer than the baby blues but can still affect up to 10% of new mothers. This will last longer than the baby blues and will often need some form of support or treatment.
In postnatal depression you may experience some or all of the following:
- Persistent low mood
- Lack of enjoyment
- Difficulty concentrating
- Severe anxiety
- Feelings of guilt
- A belief of being a ‘bad mother’ or not caring well for the baby
- Poor sleep and Poor appetite.
What to do
This is a serious condition and something that may require treatment. If you are experiencing some of the symptoms listed above, you should speak with your GP to discuss support and next steps.
If you find that your low mood is severe, you are struggling to care for your baby or are thinking of harming yourself (or others), you should speak urgently with a healthcare professional – either by calling your GP. midwife, health visitor or by contacting the NHS 111 service. If you are really unwell, go to your nearest A&E.
