Why does a new mother need emotional support?

You've probably heard that new mothers feel depressed and listless in the days after giving birth. Don't be alarmed by this, it's a natural state that experts call the baby blues and only lasts a few weeks. At this time, mothers also need more care and attention. Our article is about what can be done to gain peace of mind during this period.

A few words about baby blues

First, let's look at what you can do as a new mom if you feel more depressed than usual! We hope that by shedding light on the reasons, we can provide some reassurance.

You should know that the phenomenon called baby blues is a completely natural condition that is due to hormonal changes. During pregnancy, your body produces estrogen, which begins to decrease drastically immediately after giving birth. This is when the production of the hormone prolactin, which helps in milk production, begins.

These changes can make you feel more tired, frustrated, and likely to feel overwhelmed. Other symptoms include:

• intense feeling of sadness, I could cry constantly
• fear, anxiety, always fearing the worst
• every little thing makes you nervous, you quickly "explode"
• extreme mood swings

What can you do yourself? Here are some good tips!

The first thing you can do is accept this state. Baby blues are a common phenomenon, almost all new mothers go through it without exception. Try to be more patient with yourself during this time. Don't beat yourself up unnecessarily, because a bad day or two isn't the end of the world!

Give yourself time to adjust! A few days ago you had a huge belly, you might have been barely able to move, and now you're holding a tiny baby in your arms. Everything has changed, and it takes time to adjust.

Be a “good enough mother”!

Have you ever heard the phrase "good enough mother"? This concept was coined by pediatrician and psychologist Donald Winnicott and means: we don't have to be perfect, it's enough to give as much as we can, within our means.

It's good to remember this, because then you won't be burdened by the many expectations that you, your partner, your family, your environment, or society place on you. You don't have to listen to anyone, just your instincts, in order for an intimate relationship to develop between you and your child. You have to adapt to their needs: feed them when they're hungry, put them to sleep when they're sleepy, and hug them when they're cold.

You will instinctively give your baby the best, whether it's feeding, caring for or dressing him. For example, you will do very well to dress your baby in clothes that are comfortable for him. Extra soft bamboo jumpsuits and bodysuits are specially designed for babies' sensitive skin, keeping him cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

What can those around the expectant mother do?

The immediate family, especially the father of the baby, can do a lot to provide emotional support to the new mother. Although the first few weeks after the baby is born are stressful for him, as the changes affect him too, he should still be more attentive and patient with the mother. If possible, take your share of the housework and give the mother some time to herself. Take the little one for a walk sometimes or take on the task of bathing her.

Grandparents and friends should also help where they can – of course not with unsolicited advice! Sometimes a soothing conversation is enough and the mother should be allowed to talk about her feelings and fears. In such cases, the focus should be on the mother, not the baby!

You can also treat yourself by purchasing smaller household items and more important baby items, since the couple has less time to shop at this time. For example, a bamboo toddler sleeping bag can be a perfect gift for a baby shower , which not only promises soft, fluffy dreams, but is also very practical. Using this, the baby will not get wet at night, so the mother can sleep peacefully, so this has taken a burden off her shoulders.