The "Baby Blues"

It's the time of year, where babies are everywhere, and new parents are beaming as everyone coos over their beautiful bundle of joy. 

But, have you ever thought about why lies beneath that smile of a new mom? 

Postpartum Depression (aka: The Baby Blues) affects 80% of women, and not necessarily a "new" mom, as it can affect even the most experienced mom who has gone through other child births.

PPD is a temporary depression, for the majority of women.  With the change in hormones, and the emotions that come with having a baby, it is very easy for those Baby Blues to sweep in.  Throw in the lack of sleep and exhaustion and you have an interesting cocktail of depression, while you're enjoying your beautiful new baby.

On average, after a few weeks after child birth, PPD will start to fade, however there are cases that continue on longer, and a visit to the doctor's office may be required, to ask about the depression, as there many be an underlying problem that you haven't been aware of.  This lingering depression affect 10-16% of women, and should not be ignored.

What are the symptoms of Postpartum Depression?

- Sadness
- Tearfulness
- Trouble Sleeping
- Anxiety
- Feeling of Helplessness
- Mood Swings
- Suicide Ideations* (*extreme cases)

Do not feel ashamed if you are experiencing PPD, because you're not alone.  With many  "Mom & Baby" groups, you can find support through others who have gone through, or are going through the same feelings.  As always, we're always here to provide support and a listening ear, if you're suffering from these symptoms.  Whether you're up at 3am for a feeding, or the baby just won't go down at 11pm, or during a nap time at 1pm in the afternoon, we are always here.

613-238-3311.