Postpartum Mood Changes:
What Every New Mum Should Know (And Why You’re Not Alone)
Welcoming a new baby is magic, messy, and everything in between. But while everyone talks about midnight feeds and nappy changes, there’s a hush-hush topic that too many mums face in silence: postpartum mood changes.
This post is your friendly guide through the emotional rollercoaster of new motherhood. You’ll learn why these mood swings happen, how to care for your mind as well as your body, and most importantly, how to know when it’s time to ask for help. You are not alone in feeling all the feelings (and we're not just talking about leaking nappies and mismatched baby socks).
Riding the Hormone Rollercoaster
Picture this: you’ve just given birth, and suddenly your hormones are throwing a party... but you weren’t invited. Oestrogen and progesterone, the stars of pregnancy, plummet sharply after delivery. According to research, the sudden drop in these hormones can leave you feeling a bit upside down emotionally.
Add in other wildcards like cortisol (the 'stress' hormone) and oxytocin (the 'cuddle' hormone), and it’s natural to feel wobbly some days and wonderfully upbeat the next.
What does this mean for you?
Don’t be surprised if your mood feels like it’s on shuffle. The birth of a baby sets off a whole symphony of hormonal changes. Some mums breeze through, while others might feel the blues, or even a full-on emotional storm.
While hormones get a lot of the blame, they’re not the only reason your emotions might be running wild. There’s a lot happening:
01
Sleep (or Lack Thereof)
If your baby is treating nights like a party, you’re not alone. Lack of sleep can make anyone cranky, foggy, or teary. Remember, you don’t have to “power through”—it’s normal to crave sleep, silence, and just five minutes alone in the loo.
02
New Identity
You’ve gone from “me” to “mama” overnight. That’s a big shift! Missing your pre-baby self, hobbies, or even your old wardrobe is perfectly OK.
03
Pressure to Be Perfect
Social media is fabulous for baby spam but can make you feel like everyone else has it together. Spoiler alert: no one has all the answers. Not the mum from the group chat, and certainly not that celebrity mum on Instagram with the suspiciously spotless kitchen.
04
Relationship Wobbles
Everyone’s tired and figuring out new roles. Arguments, miscommunications, and “Oops, I forgot the nappies AGAIN!” moments are normal. Talk, hug, and don’t be afraid to ask for a listening ear.
More Than Just Hormones:
The Emotional Side of New Motherhood
Easy Self-Care for Busy Mums
Self-care doesn’t require spa days or fancy face masks. Sometimes it’s as tiny as a hot cup of tea, or singing along to your guilty pleasure playlist.
1. Nourish Your Body (and Mind)
Eating one-handed sandwiches? Join the club! Try to sneak in a fruit or two, and keep a water bottle close, especially if you’re breastfeeding. Little sips and snacks count. Hydration is queen. 👑
4. Talk About How You Feel
Share your wildest thoughts or toughest days with someone you trust. You’ll be surprised at how many mums will nod in understanding!
2. Accept Help
(Yes, Even When It’s Awkward)
“No, really, can I do anything?” Say yes! Whether it’s your mum, partner, or best mate, take them up on the offer. A short nap or even a shower while someone else cuddles the baby is a win.
5. Put the Phone Down
Scrolling for hours might make things feel worse (especially late at night). If the comparison game starts, treat yourself to a screen break.
3. Move
(Tiny Wiggles Count!)
Forget big goals. A 5-minute walk, a gentle stretch, or snuggling your baby while you sway counts. Fresh air and daylight? Free mood-boosters.
6. Breathe
(and Laugh When You Can)
The washing can wait. Take a few deep breaths. Watch a daft TV show. Cry if you need to, but laugh when you can.
Knowing When to Reach Out
You don’t need to be at breaking point before you ask for help. If your mood is getting you down most days, or you’re struggling to smile or bond with your baby, it’s time to talk. Some signs it’s time to reach out:
- Feeling hopeless, numb, or anxious for more than two weeks
- Crying most days for no obvious reason
- Withdrawing from friends and family
- Trouble sleeping (even when baby sleeps)
- Thoughts of hurting yourself or your baby (these thoughts are not your fault but DO need immediate attention)
Speaking to your GP, midwife, or health visitor is a brave and positive step. They’ve heard it all before and just want to help you feel more like yourself.
You might also find it helpful to chat with helplines like PANDAS Foundation UK, Mind, or Tommy’s. Sometimes, talking to someone who gets it is all you need to feel less alone.
A Few Words of Reassurance (Because You Deserve Them)
Being a new mum is a wild mix of tears, giggles, and “Did I just eat cold toast again?” moments. If you’re feeling low, confused, or just not yourself, you are not failing. You’re a brilliant mum, living through enormous change, and your feelings are valid.
There is support out there. Whether it’s a friend’s WhatsApp, a health visitor visit, or a local mum’s group, never hesitate to reach out. You really, truly are not alone.
If you need urgent support:
- NHS 111 (24/7 helpline)
- PANDAS Foundation UK (www.pandasfoundation.org.uk)
- Mind (www.mind.org.uk)
- SANEline (Call 0300 304 7000, 4.30pm–10.30pm daily)
Take care of yourself, lovely.
The dishes can wait!
Love,
The MightMama Team x
Last updated at 10:00 on 23rd May 2025. ©Copyright. All rights reserved.
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