After the baby: "every new mother feels low, it is just the baby blues".
Published
Verdict
Feeling down, anxious or tearful for a few days after birth is common and usually passes within 2 weeks, but low mood that lasts longer, gets worse or starts later can be postnatal depression, a common condition that usually gets better with treatment.
As forwarded
"Every new mother cries for a few weeks. It is just baby blues, she will be fine. Don't make it a big issue."
Common family advice. Specific Indian version with URL and reach: not available. Reach not available
What the evidence says
Feeling down, anxious or irritable for a few days after a baby is born is very common. This is the baby blues, and it usually goes away within 2 weeks of the birth. [S1]
Postnatal depression is a common condition. Signs include low mood, finding it hard to enjoy anything, feeling hopeless or unable to cope, feeling guilty or like a bad parent, constant worry, poor sleep even when there is time to rest, difficulty bonding with the baby, and thoughts of harming oneself or the baby. [S1]
It can begin during pregnancy, soon after birth, or up to a year after the baby is born. Fathers and partners can also have depression after a baby arrives. [S1]
Treatment includes talking therapies such as CBT, and antidepressants; many antidepressants are safe while breastfeeding. Postnatal depression usually gets better in 3 to 6 months, and is more likely to get better with treatment. [S1]
How this verdict was reached
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The forward
Taken exactly as it circulates, not as a summary of it.
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The evidence
2 sources from the four tiers, strongest first.
- Tier 2 · 2
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The line
Nothing below tier 4 is counted; every source here is graded.
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The verdict
Exaggerated Every evidence sentence above links to its source. Not reviewed by a doctor; a sourced guide, not medical advice.
What to do instead
If low mood, worry or tearfulness lasts more than 2 weeks after the birth, gets worse, or starts later in the first year, tell a doctor, nurse or ASHA worker. [S1]
Family can help with practical things like cooking, chores and night feeds so she can rest. [S1]
Free, confidential support in Indian languages, 24 hours a day: call Tele-MANAS on 14416 or 1-800-891-4416. [S2]
If she talks about harming herself or the baby, get help the same day: call 112 or go to the nearest hospital. [S1]
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Sources
- S1
- S2Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. Tele MANAS: national tele mental health helpline.Tier 2 government service
telemanas.mohfw.gov.in/home
Tiers are as graded in the research file; where the file left a source ungraded, the editor graded it against the four tiers. "Circulation only" sources document that a claim circulates and are never cited as evidence. Where a primary paper could not be opened, the page says so in the Honest note.
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