It is important to differentiate between postpartum blues which
lasts a short period of time versus depression which is a much
more serious condition. Usually "the blues" last a few days to a
few weeks, but may recur during the first year postpartum due to
stress or loss of sleep. After the initial excitement a new mom
can experience a let down, a sense of vulnerability and even
loss. She may feel an incredible responsibility and may mourn
the loss of freedom. She may feel unloved and unlovable. Fatigue
and sleep deprivation may play a major role in these sensations.
She may feel sore, weak, and if there have been complications
with her own health or that of the baby, the sense of sadness
can become overwhelming. Sometimes women experience the blues
when their support systems become less available after the first
few days or weeks. The new mom, especially a single mom or a mom
who has had a cesarean, can feel that she has no time to care
for her own physical and emotional needs. Some mothers wonder
how they a