Has anyone else experienced this around 5 weeks postpartum? My husband just went back to work and works 7 days a week, and ever since then my baby has been taking it really hard. Before he went back, she was such a content and happy baby she’d really only cry if she was hungry or needed changed. Now she cries constantly for what seems like no reason, and sometimes gets so worked up she screams and holds her breath.
The part that’s getting to me emotionally is that she calms down when her dad gets home and she’s also usually fine when we’re around friends or other people. But when it’s just me and her, she seems so unsettled and unhappy, and it honestly has me feeling like maybe she just doesn’t like being with me. I know that probably sounds irrational, but postpartum emotions are heavy and I’m struggling with it.
Did anyone else go through something similar? Is this just a phase/developmental leap or separation/change in routine?
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I don't think you're doing anything wrong, baby is just being a baby! 😊 Change is especially hard.
My experience hasn't been exactly the same, but our girl definitely calms down a lot better with dad during the day. She loves just being held while he sits at his desk, and I think she finds me too stimulating sometimes. I've found that if her needs are met (diaper, fed, warm/cold checked) but still won't let me soothe her than I can just put her down somewhere safe. Sometimes she can soothe herself and I was just getting in the way. Doesn't work everytime, and I've definitely come up with some creative ways to try and distract her 😂 but it's something to try if you need it!

It could be that she’s feeding off your energy and feels your anxiety . Try regulating yourself with some deep breaths, listening to your favorite music/audio book, go outside and get fresh air, make sure you’re hydrated/fed.

Hey hun around week 4 and peaking at week 6 is when babies get the most fussy and cry the most , they start being more aware that they’re now out in the world where it’s cold or noisy and whatever new experiences they don’t like . It’s common for baby to be more fussy rn , I promise it’s not against you at all , it might just seem like that because postpartum emotions make us see things through a warped lens , hang in there and try going outside the times u feel baby gets the most fussy. My fussy baby loveees some fresh air and sunlight 💕💕

I had the app Wonder Weeks recommended to me in a birth class. It lays out when all the typical “fussy phases” are prior to developmental leaps. Could be worth checking out.

My baby girl (6 weeks) is going through the same thing! It’s been rough but I have to keep reminding myself that it’s just a phase. Mine has been eating more than normal (formula) and it’s been hard for her to sleep during the day. I found that one or two extra ounces an hour after her initial bottle, baby wearing, and swaddling have helped her calm down