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Now I've Had the Baby... Help! Part One

Dealing with Postpartum Depression

By Linda Jenkins, RN, Childbirth Educator

Not only do the first weeks revolve around that adorable cooing bundle of joy, they revolve around mountains of dirty baby clothes, messy, expensive diapers, possibly bottles, or leaking breasts, and fussy periods for baby and parents. There is exhaustion, tension, jealousy, and probably some feelings of utter panic.

While the postpartum period does not spell disaster for all, it may not be a bed of roses, either. Somewhere in between there is a happy medium. Unaccountable depression and a feeling of inadequacy are common. Parenthood is certainly not instant bliss in the form of a newly delivered baby. "Motherly love" may not well up just because you have had a baby. Whatever your feelings, discuss them, be honest and try to make the situation as positive as possible for all concerned.

Postpartum depression is a real issue with many women. There are probably a great number of contributing causes. Fatigue is often the largest. Make sure each day has adequate rest periods set aside for you. Forget that solid eight hours a night for a while. It may have already stopped before the birth. It is even more important now to rest whenever there is a chance. During those first few weeks when the baby sleeps, you sleep, even if it is only once during the day. Take the phone off the hook and enjoy the total silence. Put a simple "mother and baby sleeping" sign on the door.

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