We tell you everything about mother’s baby blues
After the birth of a baby, most women go through the mother’s baby blues, that emotional whirlwind. When does it happen? What can you do about it?
First of all, we recognize mother’s baby blues with uncontrollable crying, fatigue and the feeling of being overwhelmed. Called “3rd day syndrome” in the 1950s, the baby blues is an emotional discharge that affects 50 to 80% of mothers.
A normal and transitory state
In fact, the baby blues occur between the 3rd and 6th day after giving birth. Its intensity varies from one mother to another: some last an hour or two and others a few days. It is a normal, temporary and relatively brief reaction.
A question of hormones?
The baby blues are often associated with a drop in postpartum hormones. However, this is not the only explanation, otherwise all women would be affected. In fact, it is the combination of fatigue, labor pains and the discovery of oneself as a mother that explain the baby blues. Sometimes breastfeeding difficulties or the fast tummy syndrome (the feeling of being empty and regretting the pregnancy) also play a role.
Supporting yourself during mother's baby blues
First of all, don’t be left alone. Therefore, the extension of paternity leave is a great step forward to allow the father to help and support the mother. Moreover, asking for support from your loved ones is also a way to limit exhaustion, which causes a lot of discomfort. The baby blues disappear on their own after a maximum of one to two weeks. However, it can sometimes develop into real distress and life as a young mother can become very painful for several months. Dare to talk about it to your midwife, your doctor or the PMI, who will be able to help you through this complicated phase.
Are you part of the mom’s entourage? Spend time with her or give her a baby gift so she can spend time with her baby and not feel neglected/unneeded.
Take time for yourself
Here is our selection of books on mother’s baby blues:
Poupon’s team
