Having a baby is meant to be one of the happiest and most exciting experiences, but why do you find yourself crying and feeling anxious about this new little life you are responsible for?

Studies show that up to 80% of new moms experience the baby blues. This has nothing to do with whether you are a good mom or not, so please don’t let your new emotions impact your perception of what kind of mother you will be. 

The baby blues typically hit anywhere between three and ten days after giving birth, but they usually go away after three to four weeks. The baby blues are pretty normal and to be expected because you are going through changes in your hormones. After your baby is born, your body goes through yet another set of changes, with some hormones that were important during pregnancy subsiding, and the hormones that are responsible for breastfeeding now coming into play. This process happens very quickly, and that is why your body takes some strain, but it should pass within a few weeks.

Becoming a parent changes you physically, mentally and emotionally, and it comes with plenty of challenges at the same time, so it’s completely understandable when you have bouts of feeling overwhelmed and anxious. Having support from your partner, close friends and or family will help you greatly through this time.

If you find that you are still feeling down and joyless four or five weeks after giving birth, you could be experiencing Postnatal Depression. Postnatal Depression affects 10% - 15% of new mothers and should not be ignored, if left untreated it can affect your ability to bond with your baby. 

If there is anything you feel is not right, speak to your doctor or midwife. Embrace the help and support from loved ones – it takes a village after all.