After your baby is born, you may feel tired after sleepless nights. In addition, her body has been through a great experience with the baby for 9 months, followed by the effort of giving birth. Maybe you’ve had a long labor, or maybe you’re feeling anxious and wondering how you’ll cope with caring for this helpless little bundle. Maybe you’re worried that you won’t automatically bond with your baby. Adding to these worries, your hormones are running rampant in your body, which can make you cry for no reason. Usually this will pass fairly quickly and you will really start to enjoy motherhood, but if it continues or if you are concerned, speak to your physician or physician assistant for advice.
Accept help from family and friends, but tell them what would really help you. Maybe it’s babysitting while you sleep, from a trusted friend, or vacuuming or shopping. He also shares your feelings with your partner, he will probably be happy to help you and support you, if you tell him what would help him the most. You’re probably not sure what to do and feel a bit left out. Share your problems and you will build a stronger relationship.
From time to time, instead of getting better, postpartum depression sets in. This can be from 2 to 8 weeks after birth or even up to a year. If this happens and your symptoms get worse, seek help. Postpartum depression can include profound anxiety and a feeling of helplessness. It can include panic attacks, heart palpitations, and a general feeling of hopelessness. It does not seem clear why some pregnancies end this way, as it can affect moms with multiple babies, but there may only be one causing a problem.
Try to bond with your baby, respond to her smiles by smiling back and speaking softly. If you focus on his needs, you may find that it helps you and it will certainly help him. All babies need the love and contact of their parents to be happy and thrive. If she needs help, don’t face her alone; see a professional. Also go out and meet others moms in a group of babies it might help. You will enjoy the company and perhaps make new friends.
I trust you will feel better soon. Your anxious moments will be subsidized so that you can really begin to enjoy caring for your new family member.