How to know when to seek help?

[Udford]

I gave birth to my second baby on Monday. I know it’s early days and my hormones will be all over the place but I feel so incredibly low.

I’m struggling to bond with my baby and can’t help but feel I’ve made a huge mistake. I’m constantly worrying about the affect bringing in a new family member has had on my first born. Grieving our life as a family of 3 where we had a routine and everyone was happy. I feel lonely in a room full of my friends and family and constantly crying, especially if someone asks me if I’m ok.

I remember feeling tearful after having my first baby but I don’t remember feeling like the this. Is it just standard baby blues and if not when do you seek help? In such unfamiliar territory and totally lost.

Hi OP

Sorry you are feeling so low. It may be worth a call to the community midwives in the morning to see about some support.

My baby is 5 weeks and I would say it took 2.5 weeks for the tearfulness etc to settle down so hopefully it may just be the hormonal changes.

Either way I hope you feel better soon.

You had a routine, and you will develop a new one. It’s very early days, so take every offer of help.

Hello lovely
Day five is the worst imo. Your hormones are on a rollercoaster and you're really really tired. Try not to panic about big things like bonding. It's going to be OK. Accept any help offered, get a little fresh air if you can, do as little as possible.
If you have a MW visit coming up, you could mention it and hopefully they will be reassuring. They will have seen it a million times before.
Take care

I was told they don't really "worry" unless it's been two weeks. However, I would most certainly speak to your midwife. They can keep you on their radar or if it seems to be getting worse or more extreme.