PPD

[Newmama93]

Hi ladies,

I have a 3 month old son who I love dearly, however, some days I wake up so tired I can’t even get off the lounge, I’m in tears writing this as I feel so guilty that I can’t be the mum I want to be. I still read, sing and chat to him and care for him but I almost am not present like I don’t feel connected with him on the days I feel like this and it’s so sad! When I feel good he’s amazing and I’m so in love. I lost so much blood during labour and I got a call from my doctor last week saying my iron levels had dropped to a 3, could this be related to the moodiness/irritability and some days feeling great whereas others can’t move from
The lounge even after a good nights sleep?

ALSO I put pressure on myself to feel in love with my son all the time that if there’s an hour where I don’t or am a bit over playing I then panic that I’m not connected like I should be :(

Thanks for any advice mama, I’m only 23 and a FTM.

You've had a tough time , the moodiness/irritability could be related to the low iron levels from your blood loss, as it does affect your mood and it will also make you feel very tired, along with some other side effects like increased hair loss. It will improve as your iron levels increase, has your doctor prescribed tablets for you?

The sleep deprivation will also make you feel exhausted! It will get easier, having a baby is a huge adjustment.

Have you spoken to your GP or health visitor to be screened for PND/PPD?

You've been through such a lot. Would you say it was a traumatic birth? Has anyone told you about Birth Trauma UK. It might be helpful to talk to them.

What's your GP suggested so far for the anaemia and have you got a follow up appointment.

Lots of Mums don't completely adore their child every minute of every day, so try not to put too much pressure on yourself.

If you are struggling though, have you told your DH/DP how you're feeling?

Please speak to the PANDAS Foundation as well @Newmama93, it sounds as if you need some support to get you back on track to feeling better

Yes such a traumatic birth! I have told my gp and DH but it’s hard when he works so much. I’m going to go back to my gp though and maybe discuss medication.

Thanks so much

So sorry. Traumatic births can affect so much, including how you feel after the birth and how you feel towards your baby.

Please think about speaking to Birth Trauma U.K. it was set up by a mum after she experienced Birth Trauma and it's there to support women, just like you