Baby Blues
NURTURE INFORMATION HUB
Evidence
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554546/
Kripa Balaram, Raman Marwaha.
Postpartum “blues” are defined as low mood and mild depressive symptoms that are transient and self-limited. The depressive symptoms include sadness, crying, exhaustion, irritability, anxiety, decreased sleep, decreased concentration, and labile mood. These symptoms typically develop within two to three days of childbirth, peak over the next few days, and resolve by themselves within two weeks of their onset.
Australian Institute of Health and Welfare
A perinatal mental health diagnosis is different from the ‘baby blues’, which occurs for approximately 80% of women between three and five days after birth. The baby blues can leave women feeling very distressed and/or emotional in the early days following the birth but will normally disappear within a few days without treatment, however ongoing symptoms may be a sign of a mental health condition (COPE 2021).
Education
In the first few days following birth, women may experience a temporary condition commonly known as ‘the baby blues.’
Baby blues are a common emotional response that many mothers experience in the days following childbirth. These feelings are typically due to the sudden change in hormonal levels following birth. Around 70-80% of mothers go through baby blues, which can include feeling very teary, or sometimes irritable. These overwhelming feelings are completely normal and natural.
When your baby is in the Neonatal Unit, the emotional experience of baby blues can feel even more intense. The stress of seeing your newborn in a medical setting, combined with the uncertainty of their health, can amplify the sadness or anxiety associated with baby blues. Being physically separated from your baby can create feelings of helplessness or frustration. The constant worry about your baby’s condition can make this already emotionally challenging time even harder to bear.
Common Symptoms of Baby Blues
Many mothers experiencing baby blues will feel emotional and tearful without always knowing why. You may find that your mood swings rapidly from joy to sadness, and you may also experience heightened anxiety or irritability. Fatigue and difficulty sleeping are also common symptoms, especially when compounded by the stress of having a baby in the hospital. You might have trouble concentrating or feel overwhelmed by even small tasks. These feelings are normal and usually disappear within a few days, and there is generally no need for any treatment other than understanding, rest and support.
Acknowledging your emotions is an important first step in coping with baby blues. It’s okay to feel sad, frustrated, or anxious — these feelings are a natural response to the difficult situation you're facing. Building a support network can also help. Whether it's your partner, family, or close friends, leaning on loved ones for emotional support can lighten the emotional burden. Engaging with neonatal staff, who are familiar with the emotional challenges of having a baby in the unit, can provide both comfort and practical advice.
Taking small moments for self-care, even if it’s just a short rest or a few minutes of mindfulness, can make a difference in how you cope. It’s also important to ask for help if you're feeling overwhelmed. Social workers, psychologists, and support groups associated with the neonatal unit can provide guidance and emotional support.
Empowerment
While baby blues usually fade after a couple of weeks, it’s important to recognise when the symptoms persist or worsen. If you’re continuing to feel very sad, anxious, or overwhelmed beyond this period, it could be a sign of something more serious, such as postpartum depression.
It’s important to seek professional help in these cases. Mental health professionals, social workers, or parent support programs, like those offered by Miracle Babies Foundation, can help guide you through these challenging emotions.
Useful Links
The Royal Women’s Hospital, Victoria
COPE – Centre for Perinatal Excellence
Panda - Perinatal Mental Health
Beyond Blue - Mental Health Support
https://www.beyondblue.org.au/
For When – Perinatal Mental Health and Wellbeing
https://forwhenhelpline.org.au/parent-resources/what-is-baby-blues/
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Disclaimer: This publication by Miracle Babies Foundation is intended solely for general education and assistance and it is it is not medical advice or a healthcare recommendation. It should not be used for the purpose of medical diagnosis or treatment for any individual condition. This publication has been developed by our Parent Advisory Team (all who are parents of premature and sick babies) and has been reviewed and approved by a Clinical Advisory Team. This publication is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Miracle Babies Foundation recommends that professional medical advice and services be sought out from a qualified healthcare provider familiar with your personal circumstances. To the extent permitted by law, Miracle Babies Foundation excludes and disclaims any liability of any kind (directly or indirectly arising) to any reader of this publication who acts or does not act in reliance wholly or partly on the content of this general publication. If you would like to provide any feedback on the information please email [email protected].
Disclaimer: This publication by Miracle Babies Foundation is intended solely for general education and assistance and it is it is not medical advice or a healthcare recommendation. It should not be used for the purpose of medical diagnosis or treatment for any individual condition. This publication has been developed by our Parent Advisory Team (all who are parents of premature and sick babies) and has been reviewed and approved by a Clinical Advisory Team. This publication is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Miracle Babies Foundation recommends that professional medical advice and services be sought out from a qualified healthcare provider familiar with your personal circumstances.To the extent permitted by law, Miracle Babies Foundation excludes and disclaims any liability of any kind (directly or indirectly arising) to any reader of this publication who acts or does not act in reliance wholly or partly on the content of this general publication. If you would like to provide any feedback on the information please email [email protected].
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