Postpartum: The Baby and Mom
Did you recently become a mother? Is there a new addition to your family? The postpartum period is a unique time in life, but it can be challenging! In this article, we’ll focus on two of the most important topics during this phase of life: visits with the baby and the new mom’s emotional well-being.
Visits to the Baby
The birth of a baby is always a much-anticipated moment for everyone who wants to welcome the new arrival. That said, first-time visitors should respect the mother’s space! Remember that she has just experienced a wonderful moment but has also gone through many changes, both psychologically and physically. In addition, at this stage, the baby is very sensitive to sounds, smells, and everything around them. For all these reasons, visitors should take certain precautions.
7 Things to Keep in Mind When Visiting a Newborn
- Wait until 2 to 3 weeks after the birth to visit at home. This gives the family time to get organized and adjust to their new routines at a leisurely pace.
- Always wash your hands before touching the baby, and don’t kiss the baby’s hands or face, since the baby’s immune system is still developing.
- Schedule the visit with the parents well in advance. Also, the visit should be brief, since at this stage the parents are tired, and the babies’ naps are the times when they can rest or take care of their chores.
- Postpone your visit if you are sick.
- Avoid giving advice unless it’s asked for. Remember not to act as if the child were your own.
- Take photos without using a flash, and do not post them on social media without your parents’ permission.
- Offer to help with some tasks that parents might need assistance with.
In addition to visiting the child, you should also pamper the mother, who is sometimes overlooked. That way, you’ll make the visit unforgettable!
Postpartum Depression
First of all, we must remember that although the idea that pregnancy and the birth of a child are times of great joy for a woman is deeply rooted in our society, this is not always the case. In fact, some mothers feel sad.
The birth of a baby is a significant event that permanently changes a woman’s status and responsibilities. Consequently, this period is one of great vulnerability and can lead to mental instability. For all these reasons, some emotional distress may arise in the postpartum period. This can include Maternal Melancholy and Postpartum Depression (PPD).
Postpartum Melancholy
Postpartum depression is experienced by 70 to 80% of new mothers. It usually begins a few days after childbirth and disappears two weeks later.
What are the associated causes?
According to most authors, the causes may be related to hormonal imbalances and physical exhaustion resulting from childbirth and the constant care that the baby requires.
What are the characteristics of postpartum depression?
Postpartum blues is a temporary mood disorder. It is typically characterized by feelings of insecurity and an inability to care for the baby, crying, fatigue, irritability, and anxiety. In most cases, these symptoms resolve on their own, and women should seek support from their families and talk through their feelings. Above all, they should get as much rest as possible.
Postpartum depression affects 10 to 20% of mothers and can last up to 2 years.
Postpartum Depression
When the symptoms mentioned above persist, we may be dealing with a more serious condition. The same is true when they begin 2 to 8 weeks after birth. In other words, if they persist or begin by the end of the first year, we may be dealing with a case of postpartum depression.
Postpartum depression affects 10 to 20% of mothers and can last up to 2 years.
What are the associated causes?
It is known that several factors may be associated with the onset of this depressive condition. Some authors note that biological, psychological, and emotional factors are involved.
What are the characteristics of postpartum depression?
The most common symptoms include a depressed mood with profound sadness, feelings of emptiness, fatigue, irritability, sleep disturbances, and obsessive thoughts (for example, about harming the baby). In addition to these, some women may even experience suicidal thoughts and feelings. Therefore, in this situation, a woman should see a doctor to receive appropriate treatment!
What treatments may be recommended? Many women will be prescribed antidepressants. However, psychological counseling, psychotherapy, and other forms of support are also necessary.
In short, treatment and family support are essential! After all, in addition to its devastating effects on the mother, untreated depression affects the entire family and can seriously impact the child’s health and development.
After reading this article, if you’re feeling distressed or if a family member is going through a difficult time, remember to seek help from a healthcare professional. At Correia Rosa pharmacies, we have a team that’s always available to help you. Come visit us!
Written by Mónica Rodrigues (mother and dermocosmetics consultant) and Dr. Catarina Afonso (mother and pharmacist at Farmácia Rosa).
