Baby Blues

“Baby blues” pertain to the negative feelings such as mood swings, irritability, difficulty sleeping, and crying spells experienced by new parents. Around 70-80% of mothers report going through these emotions and most experience the worst symptoms 4 to 5 days after giving birth. This is caused by the hormonal changes, lack of sleep, and fatigue after delivery. The symptoms are aggravated by less spousal support, isolation, financial worries, and other significant stressors. It should also be noted that some fathers experience baby blues. As compared to postpartum depression, which is a more severe form, baby blues is not characterized by chronicity, suicidal ideations, and inability to care for the infant.