The baby blues vs post-natal depression
Midwife Tessa van der Vord talks the differences between the two
Tessa van der Vord, a specialist NHS midwife and Maternal Mental Health Alliance ambassador, spoke to us about a topic that’s commonly misunderstood in perinatal mental health.
‘Most new parents experience emotional changes after giving birth, but there's a big difference between what's considered “normal” and what may need further support or treatment. Here's how to tell the two apart.’
TESSA VAN DER VORD
Hormone Levels After Birth
Estrogen and progesterone levels drop by 90-95% within 3 days after delivery (typically returning to pre-pregnancy levels within a few weeks). This sudden drop in estrogen and progesterone is comparable to a menopausal crash but compressed into a few days. With this sudden change, it’s
no wonder that mood can be affected.
What Are the Baby Blues?
The ‘baby blues’ are very common, affecting around 80% of new mothers in the first few days after giving birth. They are believed to be caused by the sudden hormonal and chemical changes that occur in the body after giving birth. During this time, it's normal to feel tearful, overwhelmed, or more emotional than usual.
While symptoms are usually mild, a small number of mums might experience the baby blues quite intensely – especially when accompanied by very little sleep in those early days. Of course, everyone is different – with unique experiences formed by individual circumstances – but the key detail is that the baby blues are typically short lived, usually resolving on their own within a few days and lasting no longer than two weeks.
Even though the ‘baby blues’ aren’t considered a mental health disorder and don’t require medical treatment, rest and reassurance can help. There’s no way to prevent the baby blues, as they’re part of the body’s natural response to childbirth – but being aware of them can make it easier to cope. What Are the Baby Blues?
What Is Postnatal Depression?
Postnatal depression is a serious condition that affects around 1 in 7 new mothers, though some studies suggest the numbers may be higher. It can develop within the first few weeks or even months after childbirth. Unlike typical tiredness or worry, postnatal depression is marked by persistent sadness, feelings of hopelessness, low mood, and sometimes difficulty bonding with the baby. Treatment is crucial and may include therapy, medication, and other forms of
support to help with recovery.
Key Differences
Baby Blues:
- Starts 2 to 4 days after birth
- Lasts up to 2 weeks
- Mild emotional ups and downs which are typically short lived
Postnatal Depression:
- Starts anytime in the first year
- Lasts longer than 2 weeks
- Intense sadness, low mood, low energy, and lack of interest or joy in doing things
If symptoms interfere with daily life and/or persist, professional support is important.
When to seek help
If these symptoms continue beyond the first few weeks post birth, it’s time to talk to someone. Support is available and recovery is possible. You are not alone.
Speak to a GP, midwife, or your health visitor – early help makes a difference.
Organisations, such as the Association for Post-Natal Illness offer online chat support and phone helplines, while PANDAS Foundation provide email and WhatsApp support. You can also find more resources through the Maternal Mental Health Alliance.
Seeking support is the first yet most impactful step you can take to start feeling yourself again.
