The first cry: Echoes in a Mother’s soul

This article was exclusively written for The European Sting by Ms. Shola Muzaffarli is a 20-year-old medical student from Shabran, Azerbaijan. She is affiliated with the International Federation of Medical Students Associations (IFMSA), cordial partner of The Sting. The opinions expressed in this piece belong strictly to the writer and do not necessarily reflect IFMSA’s view on the topic, nor The European Sting’s one.

A new life begins, another changes.

For many women, the greatest desire is to be a mother. The feeling of motherhood begins to form even before the child is born – from the moment the embryo implants in the uterus. The responsibility reaches higher levels the moment the child is born. As a result, issues such as postpartum depression, anxiety, or even psychosis. Various factors play a role in the changes in postpartum psychological health.

Biological factors

 The postpartum decrease in hormones (estrogen and progesterone) leads to emotional changes. An increase in cortisol levels, along with “good stress,” also causes feelings of anxiety and nervousness. Disruption of sleep routine, pain during childbirth and postpartum, also affects the mother’s psychological health.

Psychological factors

People with previous psychological issues are more prone to postpartum depression. Additionally, a genetic predisposition to depression within the family also brings these issues to light. The fear of “not being a good enough mother”, the loss of freedom can create stress in the mother.

Social factors

Lack of family support, financial difficulties, and the expectations of others are among the main factors that cause fear and stress in mothers.

No one wants to miss out on the joy of achieving their biggest dreams because of worry inside. Mothers don’t want that either. But, like with many mental health problems, women – mothers – often face stigma and their feelings are called “hysteria.” Because of this, they delay going to doctors and psychologists for help. In mild cases, this condition may go away with small problems, but in psychosis, it can cause the mother to become isolated, harm herself and the baby, stop breastfeeding, and lead to family breakups.

Sometimes mothers notice their emotional changes, but if their family doesn’t support them and is against seeing a psychologist, they delay going to the doctor. Unfortunately, many women who are mothers say that everyone feels this way and that the mother is exaggerating her feelings, which makes her feel ashamed. To reduce cases like this, it is important to raise awareness among people and explain that illnesses and mental health problems show differently in each person.

You can take many small steps to support women emotionally after childbirth. Even small sentences we use every day can cause fear, anxiety, or shame in them. Replacing these sentences with more supportive words will help the mother and give better results.

Shouldn’t be said

•It could be worse.

•Just deal with it. 

•Snap out of it. 

•We’ve all been there.

•Try to be positive. 

Should be said

•Is there anything I can do to help?

•I am here for you when you need me. 

•How are you feeling today?

•Thank you for sharing this with me.

•I’m sorry to hear that; it must be difficult. 

In addition, supporting the mother with her tasks, giving her time for herself, and informing those around her about the situation are important steps.

A healthy future begins with a healthy soul.

About the author

Shola Muzaffarli is a 20-year-old medical student from Shabran, Azerbaijan. She is currently studying in her 3rd year at the Faculty of General Medicine (I MPF) of Azerbaijan Medical University (AMU). She has been working as an active member and project manager in the AzerMDS SCOME (Standing Committee On Medical Education) since 2024. In addition to her studies, she is interested in playing table tennis and cooking.