What are the “baby blues”?

    Researchedby:
    Kamal Patel
    Last Updated: October 13, 2024

    The “baby blues” (also known as maternity blues, postnatal blues, third-day blues, third-day syndrome, or postpartum blues) refers to a short period of sadness, anxiety, and emotional lability after birth. This is a normal occurrence that may affect up to 76% of new birthing parents. Maternity blues are short-duration, self-limiting, and resolve without treatment. While the baby blues are a risk factor for PPD,[1][2] they are not the same thing. PPD is both more severe and longer-lasting, and parents experiencing PPD should seek treatment.[3][4]