By Melissa Archer, PMHNP-BC, MSN, BSN

“Whether a first-time mother or expecting again, pregnancy is unlike any other time in a woman’s life. Often, the high of new motherhood may present unique challenges,” says Melissa Archer, PMHNP-BC, MSN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Senses Medical Wellness. Archer explains some of these challenges, providing strategies on how to handle them.

Breastfeeding struggles.

The saying “breast is best” has been around for some time. Breast milk has antibodies that help a baby fight off infection. The consistency of breast milk also changes to meet babies’ needs as they grow and develop. However, breastfeeding is a personal decision based on various circumstances. Some women who are unable to breastfeed successfully may feel the stigma of not being able to provide naturally for their children. However, low milk supply, sore nipples, engorgement, plugged ducts, inverted or flat nipples, and infections may make breastfeeding difficult. Working with a lactation consultant or doula can help new nursing mothers iron out many of these difficulties. Choosing to pump breast milk and then using bottles are additional ways to work around breastfeeding challenges.

Physical recovery.

Many people talk about how difficult childbirth can be, but there isn’t much shared about the recovery. Those who have vaginal deliveries can expect soreness and injury recovery if tears occur during delivery. After delivery, a woman sheds the superficial mucous membrane lining the uterus during pregnancy, resulting in a discharge of blood that can last for weeks. Afterpains, similar to contractions, may also occur, along with incontinence and hemorrhoids. Women who have undergone Cesarean sections need time to recover from the surgery. Fatigue, pain at the incision site, and avoiding heavy lifting is necessary. It can take weeks before a new mother starts feeling like herself. Patience, relying on others for help, and making time for self-care can help new moms heal.

Mood changes.

Up to 1 in 7 women experience postpartum depression following birth, a condition that often resolves in a few days, and sometimes last from 3 to 6 months. Younger mothers under age 25 may be more vulnerable to postpartum depression. Post-delivery hormone changes can cause mood swings, sadness, crying, and feeling robotic is normal. Partners can also experience postpartum blues and feel overwhelmed. However, postpartum psychosis, which is severe and rare, can lead to suicide attempts and even death. Fortunately, the condition is treatable with therapy and sometimes medication. Talking with others, consulting a professional therapist, and finding a support group or online parent café can help. A doctor may sometimes suggest a short course of antidepressants or anti-anxiety medication.

“Changes can be expected when baby arrives. Moms and dads can do their best to cope with the ups and downs,” says Archer.

 

Melissa Archer, PMHNP-BC, MSN, BSN is a psychiatric nurse practitioner at Senses Medical Wellness, PLLC, providing individual, couples, family, group therapy, teletherapy, and a new baby café program for moms and dads. Senses also offers a medical wellness mental health membership program. Located at 360 Genesee Street Buffalo, NY 14204, learn more at https://www.senseswellness.org or call 716-939-3520.