Baby blues in women: Signs to check

Most women feel anxious and slightly depressed for some time after giving birth. This is completely normal and is caused due to the hormonal changes occurring in the body combined with the stress of delivery and motherhood. This condition is temporary and resolves on its own with some support and counseling. It is essential to understand the condition and seek help when needed, If not, it could escalate into post partum depression.

Some warning signs of baby blues include mood swings, lack of interest in the baby. The mother may feel sad and depressed in general. She may feel like crying for no reason at all and also may feel angry, irritated and restless. Other symptoms to watch out for include a change in appetite, loss of interest in life and daily activities, lack of motivation, sleeping difficulty, unexplained weight loss or weight gain.

The mother may also show very little interest in her baby and prefer to keep to herself. She may feel exhausted and may even blame herself for her lack of interest in the baby. These symptoms usually last for a short time from around 1 week to 10 days. If it lasts longer, it could develop into post natal depression.