You've welcomed your precious new arrival, and the joy is immense. Yet, alongside the love and wonder, you might also be feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and physically and emotionally depleted. This is postnatal depletion, a common experience for mothers in the postpartum period.

Understanding Postnatal Depletion:

Coined by Dr. Oscar Serrallach, postnatal depletion describes the physical, hormonal, and emotional exhaustion experienced by mothers after childbirth. It commonly surfaces during the postpartum period, leaving mothers feeling overwhelmed and fatigued due to the demands of childbirth and motherhood.

Contributing Factors:

• Physical Exhaustion: Childbirth is physically demanding, and recovery takes time. Caring for a newborn further adds to physical strain, leading to fatigue.

• Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy and childbirth cause significant hormonal fluctuations impacting mood, energy levels, and overall well-being.

• Emotional Stress: The demands of caring for a newborn, combined with sleep deprivation, can lead to emotional stress and feelings of overwhelm. Postpartum mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety, are also common concerns.

• Nutritional Depletion: Pregnancy and breastfeeding place additional nutritional demands on the mother's body. Failure to adequately replenish these nutrients can contribute to physical and emotional symptoms.

• Sleep Deprivation: Newborns often have irregular sleep patterns, leading to sleep deprivation for new mothers. Lack of sleep can exacerbate feelings of exhaustion and emotional distress.

If you're experiencing postnatal depletion, you're not alone. Many mothers face this challenge.

Sunday Health is dedicated to supporting mothers on their post-birth journey.