Bringing a baby into the world can be one of the most magical, joyful experiences a mother can ever have. It can also be one of the most stressful. In fact, it’s not uncommon for new mothers to experience postpartum stress.

This kind of stress is not the same as postpartum depression (PPD) – which is the most well-known mental health condition that can occur after childbirth – but it can be just as debilitating.

What is Postpartum Stress?

Postpartum stress is a condition characterized by stress, worry, anxiety, and excessive fear that something bad will happen to the newborn. It can affect any new mother, regardless of whether or not they have experienced it before.

The condition usually happens a few days or weeks after birth and can last up to a few months. Postpartum stress can happen alongside PPD, but it can also occur on its own or alongside other mood disorders.

Common Symptoms of Postpartum Stress

The symptoms of postpartum stress are wide-ranging and differ from one person to another. However, common symptoms include:.

Excessive worrying and fear
Panic attacks
Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
Loss of appetite or eating more than usual
Difficulty bonding with the newborn
Irritability
Feeling overwhelmed and out of control
Constantly checking on the newborn
Feeling disconnected from family and friends

Differences between Postpartum Stress and Postpartum Depression

While postpartum stress shares a few symptoms with PPD, they are different conditions. The following are some differences between them:.

Postpartum stress is less severe than PPD
Postpartum stress usually resolves itself in a few weeks or months, while PPD can last for up to a year or more.
Postpartum stress is more situational and related to new parenthood, while PPD is a clinical condition that may require treatment.

Treatment for Postpartum Stress

There’s no single treatment for postpartum stress, but some options can help to alleviate the symptoms. These include:.

Therapy: This can be an effective way to process the emotions and thoughts that come with postpartum stress. Talking to a mental health professional can help reduce symptoms and confront any underlying issues.
Support groups: Meeting other mothers experiencing the same thing can provide an opportunity for women to connect and share their experiences. This can help new mothers understand that they are not alone and help reduce feelings of isolation and anxiety.
Self-care: Taking care of oneself is incredibly important, particularly after childbirth. Eating healthy, nutritious meals, getting enough rest, and engaging in physical activity can all help reduce symptoms of postpartum stress.
Medication: Some women may benefit from medication to help alleviate postpartum stress. Antidepressants can be used to help manage symptoms, as can anti-anxiety medications. Women should speak to their healthcare provider to determine if medication is needed.

Prevention of Postpartum Stress

Becoming a new parent is one of the biggest transitions a person can experience. And while postpartum stress can occur under any circumstance, taking steps to prepare for the postpartum period can help reduce the chances of developing it.

Some things new parents can do to prepare for the postpartum period include:.

Planning for the baby’s arrival: new parents should make sure they have all the equipment and supplies they need for the new baby
Assembling a support team: This could include family, friends, and a healthcare provider who will offer guidance and assistance during the postpartum period
Resting and reducing stress: New parents should aim to reduce stress and get enough rest after childbirth. They should also avoid trying to do too much too soon, giving themselves time to recover.
Preparing mentally: New parents should prepare themselves mentally and emotionally for the postpartum period. They should talk to their healthcare provider about their worries and concerns and learn as much as possible about what to expect.

When to Seek Professional Help

Some women may experience postpartum stress that is more severe or prolonged than normal. In such cases, it is important to seek professional help. Women experiencing any of the following symptoms should contact their healthcare provider immediately:.