Baby Blues; Not A Regular Song Or Blues

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Postpartum period is a very sensitive period,associated with intense physical and emotional changes leading to anxiety and mood disorders. These disorders are in three degrees; postpartum blues, postpartum depression,postpartum psychosis.

Postpartum blues otherwise known as "baby blues" are comparatively milder in nature and last for no longer than 1-3 days. It is not a  character flaw or weakness

Postpartum blues also known as baby blues or maternity blues, is a very common but self-limited condition that begins shortly after birth and can present with variety of symptoms such as mood changes, tearing at any slight situation,irritability.



Signs And Symptoms 

These signs and symptoms may vary but the few I have noticed are;

Tearfulness
Questioning of one's ability to care for baby
Loss of appetite
Difficulty in making decisions
Mood swings
Anxiety
Sadness
Irritability
Feeling overwhelmed
Crying
Reduced Concentration
Appetite Problems
Trouble Sleeping or eating
Fatigue

Note: (if these symptoms get severe or persist, for more than about 2 weeks.)



 Causes
  The main cause is unknown but most school of thought have pointed out that some biological and psychological factors can influence this condition.

Biological changes include:
Cortisol
HPA axis
Trypotan
Prolactin
Thyroid hormone

Psychosocial causes:
Fatigue after labour
Caring for Newborn
Sleep deprivation
 Relationship strain
Changes in home and work routines
Financial stress
Unrealistic expectations of self
Anger
Loss or guilt (especially in sick or dead infants)



Risk Factors

Sociodemographic Factors : Age,Marital Status.

Obstetric factors : Delivery complications, Low birth weight.

Family History

Bipolar disorders:

Stress: loss of job, illness.

Multiple births.

Financial problems.

Unwanted pregnancy



Treatment

Enough rest and sleep
Avoid excess alcohol or depressants
Invite Relatives that will assist in care of newborn
Seek for an experts help
Enjoy leisure   


Complications
 
It can lead to major depression
Behavioural problems



Prevention

Early booking
Health education on birth preparedness and complication readiness. Birth preparedness and complication readiness will be discussed in the next class. 


Your suggestions and contributions are welcome.

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