Normal emotions to feel after your baby is born

The emotions a woman (and her partner) feels after giving birth can vary widely from person to person, and they can also depend on various factors, including the circumstances of the birth, the woman’s and baby’s overall health, and her individual personality. Here’s some common emotions that women may experience after giving birth, it’s normal to feel a mix of these or for your feelings to change:

1. Joy and Happiness: Many women feel an overwhelming sense of joy and happiness when they first hold their newborn baby. This can be a moment of intense love and connection between the mother and child.
2. Numb: Or you may not feel anything for your baby right away and wonder why your not crying with happiness like in the movies. Love can take time to grow and it’s normal if you don’t feel this straight away.
3. Relief: After the physical and emotional challenges of labor and delivery, there is often a sense of relief that the process is over and that the baby is healthy.
4. Exhaustion: Childbirth is physically demanding, and many women feel extremely tired and weak after giving birth.
5. Overwhelm: The responsibility of suddenly caring for a newborn can be overwhelming, and some women may feel anxious or unsure about being a mum.
6. Elation and Pride: Many women feel a sense of pride and accomplishment in bringing a new life into the world.
7. Protective: Many women experience a strong bond with their baby immediately after birth and want to protect them, but this bonding process can vary. Some women feel an instant connection, while for others, it may take time to develop.
8. Anxiety and Fear: New mothers may have anxiety or fears about the health and well-being of their baby, as well as concerns about their own postpartum recovery.
9. Sore: goes without saying whether you had a vaginal delivery or c-section, you will likely be feeling sore or in pain.
10. Regret: as you adjust to having a child, you may worry if you have done the right thing, panic you can’t do it or miss your old life. These feelings are normal and should pass as you settle into a new routine
11. Disappointment, anger or PTSD: if the birth didn’t go the way you were hoping, you may feel disappointed or angry or have PTSD. Its important to talk to your midwife, health visitor or GP if you feel you need to discuss how the birth went
12. Gender disappointment: some parents yearn for a particular sex and if you didn’t get what you hoped for you could be left with mixed feelings. These are very normal, real and valid. Check out thegdpsychologist for help and support
13. Sadness or Postpartum Blues: It’s common for women to experience mood swings and feelings of sadness in the days and weeks following birth, known as the “postpartum blues.” These feelings are typically temporary and related to hormonal changes.
14. Postpartum Depression: In some cases, women may experience more severe and persistent symptoms of depression after giving birth. This is known as postpartum depression and should be addressed with medical or mental health professionals.

It’s important to note that these emotions can be complex and may change over time. Each woman’s experience is unique, and support from healthcare providers, family, and friends is often crucial during this period. If a woman experiences prolonged or severe emotional distress after giving birth, it’s essential to seek help from a healthcare professional to address any potential postpartum mental health concerns.

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