[PARENTING] Helping Mums Cope with Postpartum Blues
Dads are such a comforting presence during pregnancy and beyond. The happiness of sharing joyous moments with mom and your bundle of joy knows no bounds. However, like all changes there will be difficult moments which might prove challenging even to the most patient and experienced dad. The rush of emotions you feel is entirely different from what mom will undergo and the intensity of emotions vary from person to person. Mood swings can range between feeling blue to suffering panic attacks. These feelings and moods are especially strong in the first few weeks after your baby is born. Such emotional outbursts and experiences are normal for new moms. You may need to use all your patience and understanding to help mom cope with this. Here are some ways to cope:
Lend an Ear.
There is no better remedy than listening. Love and attention are the key to coping with postpartum emotions. Mom needs to feel she is not alone in this. Be sincere in wanting to listen and offer your support at all times. Be there for her.
Lend a Hand.
Sometimes the added responsibility, the additional work and changes to routine and lifestyle may seem rather overwhelming. Step in to take a load off her. Offer to do things for baby so she can catch up on her sleep and have some quiet time – offer to change nappies, bathe and dress the baby.
Be Supportive.
Take time off so you can accompany her to the doctor's. Offer to carry the baby. If she is feeling emotionally weak, she may need you to explain her situation to the doctor. It is helpful for the doctor to communicate with you first hand how to deal with what your wife is experiencing. It gives you an opportunity for questions and immediate clarification.
Seek Medical Advice.
If her post-partum blues prolongs or seems serious, encourage her to see the doctor. The condition needs to be assessed before it extends into a longer period. You may ask her attending doctor or your own family doctor to recommend a specialist. Make the appointment and the session with her.
Be Prepared.
It is true that post-partum blues are common only in the first few days after birth. However, it may not always be the case and there are no common and instant remedies. Be prepared for a longer recovery and healing process. Be prepared for a roller-coaster ride but hang in there. It will be worth your support.
It is not Personal.
Because you are the nearest and dearest, you will most likely be the target of frustrations and will be criticised for your actions. You can't do right. Don't take it personally. Much of your wife's behavior is a result of feelings even she herself will not understand. If you can understand this, you can accept that she is not responsible for her actions during this difficult time.
(Source : http://www.meadjohnsonasia.com.my)
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