Pregnancy, Birth and Baby home

Baby blues

If you, or someone you know, is having suicidal thoughts and is in immediate danger, call triple zero (000). To talk to someone now, call Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Key facts

  • The term 'baby blues' refers to a time of mood swings and other feelings that are very common in the first few days or first week after your baby is born.
  • Your changing hormone levels during and after birth may play a role in the baby blues.
  • Postnatal depression is not the same as baby blues — it lasts longer, is more severe and doesn't usually go away without professional help.
  • It's important to seek help if you are struggling after your baby is born.
  • Your doctor, midwife or child and family health nurse can give you advice about support and treatment that may be right for you.

    • What are the 'baby blues'?

    The term 'baby blues' refers to mood swings and other feelings that often occur in the first week after your baby is born.

    Baby blues are very common — about 4 in every 5 people who give birth go through this, usually 3 to 5 days after the birth.

    Although these feelings can be challenging, baby blues usually pass quickly on their own, without needing any treatment.

    What is the difference between 'baby blues' and postnatal depression?

    If your symptoms continue for 2 weeks or more, this may mean that you are experiencing postnatal depression, and not the baby blues.

    Postnatal depression symptoms last longer, are more severe and often interfere with your ability to function and care for yourself or your baby. Unlike baby blues, postnatal depression doesn't usually go away on its own.

    It can be hard to know if what you're feeling is normal, or might be the start of something more serious. If you're not sure, it's a good idea to speak with your doctor, midwife or child and family health nurse.

    What are the symptoms of baby blues?

    Symptoms of baby blues may include mood swings (Opens in new tab), tearfulness and feeling anxious or overwhelmed. You may find it difficult to sleep, even when your baby is settled, and you may not feel like eating (Opens in new tab).

    What causes baby blues?

    No one really knows why you experience these feelings after having a baby. It may be due to rapidly changing hormone levels during and soon after birth.

    When should I see my doctor?

    If you are not feeling better after 2 weeks, speak with your doctor or midwife and tell them how you are feeling. They can help you figure out if you are experiencing baby blues, or if you have signs of depression or anxiety.

    If your symptoms are more severe, your doctor may refer you to a mental health professional (Opens in new tab) for treatment including psychological therapy or medicines.

    If you are having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, call Lifeline (Opens in new tab) on 13 11 14 or call triple zero (Opens in new tab) (000) for immediate support.

    FIND A HEALTH SERVICE — The Service Finder can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and other health services.

    How is baby blues diagnosed?

    Your doctor or midwife can diagnose baby blues by talking to you and listening to how you feel. They may ask you to answer a questionnaire to check whether you might have postnatal depression.

    How is baby blues treated?

    There is no specific treatment for baby blues, but there are things you can do to help you through the challenging time after having a baby. Here are some tips that might help:

    Having a baby can be a stressful time. Remember that self-care is important for both you and your baby.

    What are the complications of baby blues?

    Baby blues usually settle on their own and without complications, but they can increase your chance of developing postnatal depression later.

    Can baby blues be prevented?

    It may not be possible to prevent baby blues, but it's helpful to know about it before you give birth so that if it happens, you understand why you're feeling this way.

    Resources and support

    Some trusted sources you can go to for advice and support include:

    Languages other than English

    Information for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples

    Information for sexually and gender-diverse families

    Speak to a maternal child health nurse

    Call Pregnancy, Birth and Baby to speak to a maternal child health nurse on 1800 882 436 (Opens in new tab) or video call. Available 7am to midnight (AET), 7 days a week.

    Last reviewed: September 2025

    Need more information?

    These trusted information partners have more on this topic.