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About the Baby Blues

Up to 80% of new mothers experience the Baby Blues

The Baby Blues are a period of normal adjustment, usually lasting 2-3 weeks and resolve with support from family and friends and increased rest.  The symptoms are unsettling, but do not interfere with a woman’s ability to function.

Symptoms of the Baby Blues include:

  • Sudden mood swings
    (new moms say that they feel the “highest of highs and the lowest of lows”)
  • Loneliness, even among loved ones
  • Sadness and crying spells
  • Loss of appetite
  • Sleeping problems
  • Irritability
  • Restlessness
  • Anxiety
 Baby Blues are NOT considered to be a PMAD; instead, they are a brief period (2-3 weeks) of normal adjustment.   


If these issues do not resolve within a few weeks, the mother may be experiencing postpartum depression or anxiety.

Learn more about the difference between the Baby Blues and PMADs.

PSVa Support Groups will be on holiday break from 12/20 until 1/1.

If you need support, please call the Warmline 703-829-7152.