What is baby blues and symptoms of the mild form of maternal depression

Much is discussed about postpartum depression and the implications of this problem in women who have just had a baby. But do you have any idea what the baby blues is? To help demystify this topic, we invited hospital psychologist Aline Lemos (CRP/BA nº 03/11.878) to talk more about it. Follow:

What is the baby blues?

According to Aline, the expression baby blues refers to the postpartum moment in which there is a sudden drop in the pregnant woman’s hormones. This can cause mood swings, sadness, among other symptoms. In other words, this is the mildest form of depression and is characterized by a state of hypersensitivity.

The psychologist also says that there is no particular reason for a woman to be affected by the baby blues, so anyone can develop the symptoms. However, hormonal changes can also be influenced by her socio-affective conditions.

Difference between baby blues and postpartum depression

It can be said that the baby blues is the initial phase of postpartum depression. In this second case, the feeling of melancholy is more intense and the mother feels unmotivated to deal with the new routine and with her baby. Therefore, the woman must be taken care of so that this stage does not advance.

baby blues symptoms

According to Aline, the baby blues symptoms last about two weeks and disappear in the same way they started. In addition, changes in mood and frailty can result from physical and emotional overload. Therefore, a woman may develop the following symptoms:

• Insomnia
• easy cry
• feeling of fragility
• Irritability
• Lack of energy
• Lack of confidence
• Sadness
• mood swings

Undoubtedly, this is a time of change in the mother’s life. It is in the puerperium that she learns to love and accept the baby, thus adapting to a new reality and bodily changes.

How to treat baby blues

According to psychologist Aline, baby blues should not be considered a disease, so there is no specific drug treatment. However, there are some fundamental cares, such as the reception and support for this woman. Incidentally, it is important to check if this mother has any history of mental disorder. Here are some tips for dealing with this difficult time:

• Expose your feelings: Talking about what you’re feeling more clearly helps reduce symptoms when they manifest.
• Asking for help: it is very important to have the support of the people around you, especially your husband and family.
• Maintain a balanced diet: This can help reduce baby blues symptoms. In addition, the mother should eat foods that contain omega 3.

Finally, it is essential that the mother knows that she is not alone at this moment and that she can ask for help when she needs it. If you want to know more about postpartum depression, check out our article clarifying everything about this subject.