Down in the Dumps in the 5Th Month

Something someone once told me after my first baby... It took 9 months to build up all those hormone. It's going to take about 9 months to purge them all.

Hang in there. Your more than half-way to the 9 month mark, mama!

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I also have a 5.5 month old. Pregnancy hormones keep your hair from falling out as a normal part of shedding when you are pregnant. As your hormones decline after birth, the mature follicles that normally would have shed seem to fall out at once. Now that baby is eating some solids, your body is adjusting to making less milk, and that starts the hormone shift.
My hair started to do this about a month ago, and just went and got a new, shorter haircut that I love, and I don't notice hair in the drain as much. And the new haircut made me feel like a brand new woman. Sometimes the little things like this help the most.
Also, I work full time, and have a 1/2 mile walk to my office in the morning. I honestly think that a brisk walk and sunshine every morning helps me with "yuck" tremendously. I know vitamin D can cause depression and low energy. People get less vitamin D in the winter months, esp in colder climates. So between that and the hormones shift, you are getting a double whammy. I say sit in sunny window with baby (cause it's good for baby too) at least 15 minutes a day. Or, if your weather permits, get out and take a quick walk with baby.
Finally, the weight with my first baby fell off quick. This time around, it's taking much longer. Don't be too hard on yourself about it. It took 9 mos to put it on, so it will take as least as much time to get it off. That is what I tell myself anyway-lol!

Yes your hormones..Are you still taking vitamins?????? Hairloss and acne are signs that your body is adjusting..Generall the year after you have a baby it takes to stabilize. If you find your mood isn't improving I would see your OB/GYN to discuss. Also, see a nutritionist that can help you with appropriate vitamins to take and meals that will help your energy....The weather has been bad but Spring is coming and you'll be able to get out and walk.

I feel the same way, except for the zits and previous pregnancy. You are feeling typical. I am really down about my weight as well, since this is the heaviest that I have ever been. I hate it. I am thinking of going to start weight watchers, nutrisyste, or Jenny Craig. Although I am leaning toward Nutrisystem since there is food delivered and I don't have to worry about healthy meals. I am hoping that will jumpstart my weigh loss. I am working a little as well, I am a holistic health practitioner and so I work Wednesdays and Saturdays so that will help with exercise. As far as your acne goes. Try some tea tree oil in with your moisturizer that will help. I am also an esthetician, I like to recomend more natural products for the face. Good luck and I really wish you well on the wight loss.

It's perfectly normal. I know it doesn't make it any easier to get through though. It doesn't help that it's winter and frigid outside!

I would suggest trying to get some exercise. Even a little bit of yoga is going to help release adrenaline, which is going to make you feel better. Can you leave the baby with someone for a few hours and just get a little bit of alone time? Maybe get a few girls together for lunch, dinner or drinks. If not, what about going to the mall? I know I always feel recharged after I have a few hours to myself. I try to make it a point to NOT stay home. If I stay home I always wind up cleaning. Not exactly relaxing!