Elizabeth O’Neal Turner, daughter of Lance Turner, Online Editor for Arkansas Business Publishing Group.


Hormones, Part 2

After junior arrives, prepare for night sweats! As with morning sickness, moms experience this to varying degrees. Some moms have a full-on episode while they sleep that leaves them, their beds and probably their spouses drenched. Here’s what to do:

  • Sleep in light, loose-fitting clothing.
  • Layer a couple of beach towels on top of the spot where you sleep.
  • Have a fan running nearby.
  • Keep an extra set of PJ’s next to your bed.
  • Stay well hydrated.
  • Talk to your physician.

Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression (PPD) is typically depression that occurs after having a baby, but can also occur during pregnancy, after the loss of a baby or when a couple is having difficulty conceiving.

8-19 percent of women reported having frequent postpartum depressive symptoms, according to a survey from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

4 percent of fathers experience depression in the first year of their child’s life, too.

Look for these symptoms if you think you or your partner is experiencing postpartum depression:

  • Low or sad mood
  • Having problems thinking, concentrating or make decisions
  • Trouble sleeping when your baby sleeps (more than the usual lack of sleep for new parents)
  • Feeling numb or disconnected from your baby
  • Having scary or negative thoughts about your baby
  • Worrying that you will hurt the baby
  • Feeling guilty about not being a good mom, or ashamed that you cannot care for your baby

If you are concerned about having any of these feelings, it is vital to tell your doctor or nurse.

Source: CDC.gov.

For more baby tips and topics, visit LittleRockFamily.com/Baby.