The “baby blues”: when emotions run high

There are various causes of the “baby blues”. Fatigue, sudden hormonal changes after giving birth, particularly related to preparing for breastfeeding, and breastfeeding itself all play a key role. Added to this is a flood of emotions, often triggered by the transition from being a “pregnant woman” to that of a “mother”, with the added responsibility of caring for a vulnerable and dependent human being.

The “baby blues” affects most women after childbirth, even when the pregnancy and childbirth go well. However, certain factors can contribute to or trigger this phenomenon, including: 

• a history of mental health problems;
• specific chronic conditions;
• insufficient support from a partner or loved ones;
• difficult childhood experiences or violence suffered in the past;
• low self-esteem;
• difficult living conditions or a significant recent event.

The “baby blues” is not a pathological condition, meaning it is not caused by an illness. It reflects the mother’s adjustment to her new life. It should be differentiated from two other pathological conditions occurring after childbirth: postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis, also known as puerperal psychosis.

Postpartum depression is less common than the “baby blues”, affecting around 17% of women in the first two months after childbirth. It can occur up to a year after delivery, but the peak is between the second and eighth week. More than a third of these women have fewer than three close contacts to confide in. Postpartum depression can occur without any prior signs, even after an uncomplicated pregnancy and delivery, but certain factors can increase the risk:

• a difficult delivery or living conditions;
• maternal health problems;
• a temporary separation of the mother and baby for medical care.

Postpartum depression can affect any new mother, even without a history of mental health problems. It can occur:

• after “baby blues” that do not go away or that worsen;
• following a depressive episode during pregnancy.

The symptoms are pronounced, sometimes after a gradual progression, or occur as sudden, severe worsening (known as acute decompensation). The symptoms are the same as during the “baby blues” but are more intense and last longer than two weeks after giving birth. Other symptoms may also occur, such as:

• weight loss;
• sadness;
• dark or even suicidal thoughts;
• physical and mental sluggishness.

This is a potentially serious condition but rest assured: with appropriate medical and psychological care, it is possible to overcome it.

Studies of fathers show that partners can also experience a depressive episode after the birth. Support at home and parental leave to care for the baby can help reduce stress and make a difference.

Postpartum psychosis is a rare but serious condition related to pregnancy and childbirth that affects one to two women in 1,000.

Symptoms appear within four weeks of giving birth, peaking on the tenth day and are severe, with a real risk of suicide or infanticide. This is a psychiatric emergency requiring immediate care. This disorder can be associated with a first episode of bipolar disorder, and more rarely with schizophrenia. Future pregnancies represent a risk of recurrence, making vigilance even more important.

Although rare, postpartum psychosis exists, making it essential to take the “baby blues” and, especially, postpartum depression, seriously to prevent the development of this serious condition.

Although medical treatments are not required in the case of the “baby blues”, it is important to address the situation and talk about it with loved ones and childbirth professionals, such as a midwife or doctor. It is important to have help at home to allow the mother to get enough sleep and eat a balanced diet. Psychotherapy may be considered especially if there is a facilitating factor. Talking to others who have gone through the same experience can also help. It is essential that the mother is kind to herself but also knows when to ask for help.

Childbirth brings about a period of major changes in a woman’s life. Depending on each woman’s situation, this often comes with the “baby blues”, and recognizing the symptoms helps to ensure appropriate care. This is neither a failure nor a weakness: it is about understanding that the birth of a child significantly transforms the household dynamics and also impacts each parent.

Taking care of yourself, strengthening your bond with your child and nurturing their development also helps support the health and well-being of the parents. Childbirth professionals, local or online support groups and specialized psychologists provide valuable support during this postpartum transition period.