The third time was different: postpartum anxiety after an easy history

After her third baby, a mom who had never struggled before faced postpartum anxiety, and learned that asking for help was the bravest thing she could do.

Keisha, mom of three

I thought I knew the routine

My first two postpartum periods were hard but manageable. So when my third arrived, I expected the same tired-but-okay version of new motherhood. Instead, by week three I could not sleep even when the baby slept. My chest hummed with dread from the moment I woke up.

The intrusive thoughts

I started checking the baby's breathing every few minutes. I rehearsed worst-case scenarios all day long. I was afraid to be alone with her because of what my mind kept inventing. I thought a 'good mom' would never think these things.

Getting help

My partner noticed I had stopped eating and called my OB. She diagnosed postpartum anxiety and started me on medication. Within a few weeks the alarm in my body quieted enough that I could breathe and enjoy my baby.

What I want you to know

A history of easy pregnancies does not protect you, and scary thoughts do not make you a bad parent. Postpartum anxiety is common and treatable. Please tell someone what you are actually feeling, the way my partner pushed me to. I got my life back.