Postnatal: Baby blues

Question 1

Define baby blues.

Answer 1

Common psychological problem from d3 post-partum.

Question 2

What is the aetiology of baby blues?

Answer 2

Sudden decrease in oestrogen and progestrone.

Question 3

What are risk factors for the baby blues?

Answer 3

Women who have previously suffered PMS at higher risk

Primigravidae

Anxiety/depression in pregnancy

Fear of labour

Poor social adjustment

Not associated with obstetric factors

Question 4

Summarise the epidemiology for the baby blues.

Answer 4

2/3 of mothers experience this.

Question 5

What are signs and symptoms of the baby blues?

Answer 5

Symptoms within 10d post partum, liable mood, rapid alterations, feeling confused, tearful and irritable.

Question 6

What investigations should be performed for the baby blues?

Answer 6

CLINICAL DIAGNOSIS

Question 7

How are the baby blues managed?

Answer 7

Management not required. Antenatal education key.

Question 8

What is the prognosis of the baby blues?

Answer 8

Self resolving in a few days.