The 4th trimester is a time of adjustment for both new mom and newborn. Adjusting to new mom life, baby's sporadic schedule, and tending to your infant's constant needs can be exhausting and overwhelming. Many moms find themselves navigating a range of emotions after giving birth. Knowing what to expect during those emotional stages of the 4th trimester can be challenging.
Why do we have such intense emotions after giving birth?
How to recognize postpartum depression symptoms and know when to ask for help
Baby blues vs. postpartum depression
The baby blues typically affect 80% of new moms and occur between within the first month after delivery. Postpartum depression can last for a year after childbirth. Baby blues will often go away once the mom finds her routine with the new baby while moms experiencing postpartum depression have more severe and harmful mood swings that can interfere with their ability to take care of themselves or the baby.
Thankfully, attitudes about the postpartum period are changing. A report by The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) is now recommending that medical practitioners provide additional maternal follow-up after birth as well as insurance coverage for continuous postpartum care for women.
Research from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that 1 in 8 women experience symptoms of postpartum depression. New moms who experience mood swings or anxiety that lasts for an extended period of time should seek treatment. If you're having thoughts of doing harm to yourself or your baby, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for free and confidential crisis counseling, 24 hours a day. TTY: 1-800-799-4889. Online chat is also available 24/7.
