8 Unexpected Postpartum Depression Symptoms

1. Insomnia

New mothers are often advised to sleep whenever their babies are sleeping to catch up on rest. One unexpected postpartum depression symptom is insomnia and if you are having trouble sleeping no matter how tired you are, you could be suffering from postpartum depression. Get as much rest as you can by prioritizing sleep.

2. Variety of physical symptoms

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You would think that common symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, backaches would disappear by the time you give birth to your baby. But surprisingly enough, such symptoms might return after birth. Accept help from family and friends to relieve some of the strain on your body from postpartum depression. On top of such physical symptoms, postpartum depression can cause headaches, stomach upsets and even panic attacks. Be prepared for these unavoidable symptoms with these home remedies .

3. Intrusive thoughts

One of the most unexpected postpartum depression symptoms is having very disturbing thoughts. These intrusive and scary thoughts may pop-up in a new mother’s mind and leave her scared, anxious and in a very fragile state. These thoughts will often revolve around the baby and scenarios that involve accidents, injuries and even the death of the little one. If this describes you, the most important thing is not to believe or act on them. Don’t be embarrassed to talk about these thoughts with your partner, or someone you trust. They are more common than you think. And please get help immediately.

4. Hunger pangs

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A new mum may not feel depressed but she could be showing it…on her plate. If you are always eating even though you are full, it could be a sign of postpartum depression. Extra calories are necessary for breastfeeding mums but if you feel that you are eating too much, do talk about it to your doctor.

5. Brain fog

A mother who is suffering from postpartum depression may have brain fog. It could start by having difficulty in remembering things, inability to multitask, inability to finish even a simple task, and just going through the day as if in a daze. Exhaustion from lack of sleep is normal but if you feel your brain is in a fog because of it, get help.

6. Numbness

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If you feel like you are disconnected from your life and are no longer caring about your appearance, your family or your baby, you could be suffering from postpartum depression.

It is important to note that postpartum depression symptoms vary and some are more evident than others. Some mums show very obvious signs of postpartum depression. Other mothers will smile through their pain and suffering. But you don’t have to. Be aware but also know that you may display one or more of the above symptoms but still be a-ok. All new mums need time to adjust and will be tired. Just be aware and seek help if you need it. Don’t brave through it if you sense something is not right. Talk to your husband, friends, family or doctor if you feel something is not right. You and your baby will be happier for it.

7. Anger

New mothers who suffer from PPD are often angry or irritated. At the tiniest provocation, you might feel like yelling at everyone, throwing things, or just stomping your feet in utter frustration. While the reason for this constant anger isn’t clear, the feeling often sparks when you hear your baby cry or every time you see your naked postpartum body. If you feel angry or annoyed, try not to direct these feelings towards your baby. If you can, have someone look after your child while you cool off. If these symptoms persist or place your child at risk in any way, seek professional help.

8. Baby bonding issues

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Most new mothers fall in love with their babies instantly. But if you feel distant, uninterested and sometimes even resentful of your new baby, you could be feeling one of the unexpected postpartum depression symptoms. Like you, some new mothers can’t feel the “joys” of motherhood when all you’ve been doing is staying up all night, changing icky diapers and listening to your baby cry. To help you appreciate your baby, hire a nanny or ask someone to help you take care of the baby (especially the dirty work) once in a while. This might be a temporary solution. But the stress-free moments you’ll spend with your baby should be enough to help you grow closer together.

Please do remember that is very important to seek medical help if you think you have PPD. Your doctor can certainly help you and also direct you to the many support groups that are out there…you are not alone! Please do remember that is very important to seek medical help if you think you have PPD. Your doctor can certainly help you and also direct you to the many support groups that are out there…you are not alone! Please do remember that is very important to seek medical help if you think you have PPD. Your doctor can certainly help you and also direct you to the many support groups that are out there…you are not alone! Please do remember that is very important to seek medical help if you think you have PPD. Your doctor can certainly help you and also direct you to the many support groups that are out there…you are not alone!

Please do remember that is very important to seek medical help if you think you have PPD. Your doctor can certainly help you and also direct you to the many support groups that are out there…you are not alone!