Everything you need to know about postpartum depression 🍼

Becoming a mother is often described as one of the happiest moments in life. And yet, after giving birth, emotions can be much more complex than we imagined. Between the intense fatigue, emotional rollercoasters, and feelings of loneliness or being misunderstood… many moms ask themselves: “Is it normal to feel all of this?”

The postpartum period is a time of profound upheaval—physically, hormonally, emotionally, and even in terms of identity. Becoming a mom doesn’t always come naturally, which can add another layer of guilt. Bringing a new life into the world and stepping into parenthood means finding a new balance—and that’s no small feat!

For some women, this transition happens smoothly, while for others, it can feel more fragile. That’s why at Tajinebanane, we wanted to take a moment to address it simply, openly, and without judgment. 🫶

Baby blues: a common (and temporary) stage

In the days following birth, most mothers experience what’s known as the “baby blues.” This emotional state usually appears between the second and fifth day after delivery, when hormones drop sharply and fatigue accumulates.

It can show up as:

Strong emotional reactions (easy tears, hypersensitivity, etc.)
Intense fatigue
Mood swings
Feelings of anxiety or being overwhelmed

Remember: baby blues are common, normal, and temporary. These feelings usually fade within a few days, sometimes up to two or three weeks, without any special treatment. With rest, support, and time, it will gradually pass.

Baby blues aren’t an illness. They’re a very common period of adjustment after giving birth.

Postpartum depression: when the low mood lasts longer

When sadness, anxiety, or feelings of emptiness persist beyond two or three weeks, or when these emotions grow stronger over time, it may be what is called postpartum depression. Unlike the baby blues, postpartum depression does not go away on its own and may require more concrete support.

Postpartum depression can also appear a few weeks after birth, or even several months later—sometimes up to a year after delivery. It can show up as deep, persistent sadness, a loss of interest in everyday activities, overwhelming fatigue, sleep disturbances (even when the baby sleeps), or feelings of guilt.

Some mothers may even experience difficulty bonding with their baby, which can be particularly painful. And yet, it’s important to remember: this does not reflect on your quality as a mother or the love you have for your child.

Keep in mind that postpartum depression is a recognized condition—it is not a lack of willpower, maternal instinct, or love.

Do some mothers experience it more than others?

There isn’t a single cause of postpartum depression. It usually results from a combination of factors, and while hormonal changes play an important role, they aren’t the only cause.

Extreme fatigue, lack of sleep, a difficult or traumatic birth, feelings of isolation, a history of anxiety or depression, or even social pressure… all of these can make some mothers more vulnerable.

The most important thing to remember is that any mother can be affected, regardless of her background, support system, or level of preparation. 🤱

Daring to talk about it: an essential first step toward healing

Even today, postpartum depression is often surrounded by silence. Many women hesitate to speak up for fear of being judged, not being taken seriously, or not fitting the idealized image of motherhood, which can add to feelings of guilt.

Yet putting words to what you’re going through can often bring the first sense of relief. Talking to your partner, a close friend, a midwife, your doctor, or a mental health professional can help you feel less alone in facing these difficult emotions.

Remember: asking for help is not a sign of weakness—it’s an act of courage. 💛

With the right support, whether it’s psychological counseling, medical follow-up, or leaning more than usual on those around you, improvement is real and lasting! We promise: you will feel better, even if it’s hard to imagine in the moment. ✨

So, how does this affect your bond with your baby?

Sometimes, mothers feel guilty for not immediately experiencing the idealized bond with their baby, especially when their own feelings of distress seem overwhelming. Once again, it’s important to remember that attachment is something that develops and strengthens over time.

Most importantly, taking care of your baby even when you’re struggling is already an immense act of love. This bond doesn’t depend on perfection—it’s built through your presence, even if it feels fragile or imperfect. Your baby doesn’t need perfection; they just need you to do your best. 🫂

NEED HELP?
If you feel that something isn’t right, talk to a healthcare professional: midwife, doctor, psychologist, or psychiatrist… And if your symptoms persist or become overwhelming, don’t wait. You are not alone, and you don’t have to go through this period without support.

CONTACTS:
Allô Parents-Bébé – 0 800 00 34 56 (Monday to Friday, 10am–1pm & 2pm–6pm)
National toll-free, anonymous service. Early childhood professionals listen, support, and guide worried parents from pregnancy until the child turns three.

Maman Blues Association
A space where mothers can freely share their maternal difficulties through a forum, Maman Blues representatives, or support groups.

National Suicide Prevention Number – 3114 (24/7)
Free number with trained professionals in suicide prevention.

In short, the postpartum period is intense and sometimes overwhelming, and it’s normal to feel unwell during this time. Whether it’s a brief case of baby blues or a deeper postpartum depression, your emotions are completely valid.

Even if it feels like you’re “not doing enough” right now, remember that you will get through this and that you’re already doing so much. And above all, asking for help is part of the process. 🫶

Written by Bertrand Lamy

@tajinebanane