I think the most important thing for any...

tiffani~edd 110/07/05 - May 6th, 2005 12:18 PM
[Original Comment]

I think the most important thing for any new mom, especially a first time mom, is to be surrounded by family and friends. Family and friends will be able to tell if something is just not right with you. Also, after daddy goes back to work and you're all alone with a newborn, the emotions begin to get a bit overwhelming. I always felt very alone/depressed when I was at home by myself with my daughter. I was great when someone was with me. Take all the help you can get, and don't be afraid to reach out if you need to. I'm fortunate to have never experienced PPD, especially to the extreme that Brooke Shield did, how horrifying! For the record, I had an induced labor, epidural, and emergency C section. With my second pregnancy, wich resulted in a beautiful little boy, I had a scheduled C section. When Nicholas was born, he had to spend 16 days in the NICU. He was 8 days old before I even got to hold him for the first time. This took a huge toll on my emotions. Imagine giving birth and not being able to hold your baby until 8 days later. He was rushed to the Childrens Hospital ( an hour away) about 8 hours after I had him. I had a C section and was confined to a bed and didn't even see him until he was 3 days old, except for the brief moment you get n the operating room. Anyways, with this delivery, I was very depressed, but I think it was more because of the circumstances, then PPD. I had some difficulty bonding with him until he was over a month old. Maternally, I knew what he wanted and needed, and I did provide that, but the emotional connection wasn't there. I tell you what, whether it's PPD or just some emotional imbalance, friends and family are key. Research the warning signs of PPD and make your loved ones awre of them. I hope you have a wonderful experience with your baby, and please don't let the experiences we share be the rule, as we are more likely the exception. Good luck! :o)


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