Feelings After Birth Postpartum Adjustment

Baby Blues

After the birth of a baby many emotions are possible from joy and relief to sadness.

Up to 80% of new mothers may feel sad, tired and overwhelmed for the first few days after giving birth. These symptoms are brief and will disappear on their own.

Postpartum Depression

A depression that does not go away may occur in 10% of new mothers. The symptoms may appear soon after birth or an adoption, or may occur up to a year later.

If you have any fear of harming yourself or your baby, call the Crisis Team at Grey Bruce Health Services in Owen Sound at 376-2121. The line is staffed 24 hours a day.

If you are having any of the following feelings/problems, contact your doctor or midwife.

• Continual Sadness

• Guilt

• Anger

• Feelings of Isolation

• Nervousness

• Lack of Appetite

• Over Concern or No Feelings For Baby

• Inability To Cope

• Feeling Inadequate

• Difficulty in Sleeping

• Long Periods of Crying For No Reason

• Panic Attacks

• Marital Difficulties

• Excessive Worry

Helpful Tips

• Be kind to yourself

• Take time out for yourself

• Rest during the day

• Eat nourishing food

• Exercise

• Don’t set goals that are unreasonable

• Do something for yourself every day

• Take one day at a time

• Learn more about Post Partum Depression

• Find out about Parenting Programs

• Talk to and surround yourself with supportive persons

• Talk to your doctor or midwife about your feelings or emotional state

Helpful Resources Birth Preparation Program

Grey Bruce Health Services, Owen Sound 376-2121 ext. 3928 Make an appointment to meet with the Birth Preparation Nurse to discuss your prenatal and post-partum concerns.

Crisis Intervention Team 

Grey Bruce Health Services, Owen Sound 376-2121 ext. 2450 Telephone and personal crisis service, 24 hours a day.

Grey Bruce Health Services Library 

376-2121 ext. 2043 Patient Education Section - books and videos.

Mental Health Services 

The Grey Bruce Health Services, Owen Sound, 376-2121 ext. 2460
Counseling provided for anxiety and depression.

Pass-Can     (Aid for New Mothers) 
1-905-844-9009
This Canadian group provides telephone support and information for new mothers concerned about post-partum depression.

Other resources

For a further list of resources, visit Community Resources for Parents and the infant section of this website.

If you require more information about support services in your community, call the Grey Bruce Health Unit, your Physician/Midwife or the Birth Preparation Program.