The Science Behind Postpartum Anxiety & Natural Remedies That Help

Why Does Postpartum Anxiety Happen?

Postpartum is a time of profound hormonal, emotional, and physical shifts. While some women adjust smoothly, others find themselves trapped in a cycle of worry, intrusive thoughts, and restlessness. Unlike Postpartum Depression, which is often associated with sadness or detachment, Postpartum Anxiety can manifest as:

• Racing thoughts and an inability to relax

• A constant fear that something bad will happen to the baby

• Postpartum depression rage, where irritation flares over the smallest things

• A tight chest, fast heartbeat, or stomach discomfort

Research suggests that Postpartum Anxiety affects up to 20% of new mothers, yet it remains widely misunderstood. Many women dismiss it as “new mum stress” without realising that their hormones, nervous system, and nutrient levels are all playing a role.

The Biological Triggers of Postpartum Anxiety

Hormonal Shifts & the Nervous System

During pregnancy, oestrogen and progesterone rise to their highest levels. These hormones not only support pregnancy but also help regulate mood, sleep, and emotional stability. Within 24 hours of giving birth, they plummet—a drastic change that can disrupt serotonin levels, leading to heightened anxiety and mood swings.

At the same time, cortisol (the body’s main stress hormone) remains high, keeping new mums in a state of hypervigilance. While this is a natural biological response meant to protect the baby, prolonged exposure to high cortisol can make it difficult to rest, relax, or feel in control.

Nutrient Depletion & Energy Crashes

Growing, birthing, and feeding a baby takes a huge amount of resources. Many postpartum women experience:

• Low magnesium levels, which are linked to anxiety and insomnia

• Iron deficiency, contributing to exhaustion, irritability, and brain fog

• Fluctuating blood sugar levels, making mood swings and stress responses worse

Without replenishing these nutrients, the nervous system remains on high alert, making Postpartum Anxiety feel even more intense.

How to Reduce Postpartum Anxiety Naturally

1. Use Herbal Remedies for Nervous System & Hormonal Support

Mama Recover is a carefully crafted postpartum herbal infusion designed to:

• Calm the nervous system and reduce cortisol

• Replenish key minerals like magnesium and iron

• Support hormonal rebalancing after birth

Key ingredients for anxiety relief:

• Oat Straw – High in B vitamins and magnesium, it helps relax the nervous system.

• Holy Basil (Tulsi) – An adaptogen that lowers cortisol and promotes emotional resilience.

• Stinging Nettles – Rich in iron and calcium, helping to restore energy.

• Raspberry Leaf – Supports hormonal balance and uterine healing.

• Lady’s Mantle – Helps regulate oestrogen fluctuations.

• Hibiscus Flower – Provides antioxidants and vitamin C, which support overall vitality.

Drinking a hormone-balancing postpartum tea daily is a simple, effective way to ease tension and support postpartum recovery.

2. Balance Blood Sugar to Stabilise Mood

Blood sugar spikes and crashes can intensify stress responses, making Postpartum Anxiety worse. Many new mums survive on quick, convenient meals (toast, coffee, or snacks), but this can lead to energy crashes and irritability.

To keep blood sugar stable:

• Eat protein with every meal (eggs, nuts, seeds, lentils)

• Include healthy fats (avocado, olive oil, nut butter)

• Prioritise slow-releasing carbs (oats, quinoa, root vegetables)

Pairing a hormone-balancing postpartum tea like Mama Recover with a nutrient-dense snack can help stabilise energy and mood throughout the day.

3. Prioritise Rest & Nervous System Recovery

Lack of sleep is one of the biggest contributors to Postpartum Anxiety, but rest isn’t just about sleep—it’s about reducing the body’s overall stress load.

If sleep is limited, focus on:

• Deep breathing techniques (like the 4-7-8 method)

• Short naps or quiet moments of stillness

• Using magnesium before bed to aid relaxation

• A warm cup of Mama Recover before bed, which contains natural calming herbs

Postpartum Anxiety is deeply physiological, not just emotional. By supporting the nervous system, replenishing nutrients, and prioritising small moments of rest, it’s possible to ease the overwhelm and feel more balanced.

If you’re experiencing Postpartum Anxiety, consider adding Mama Recover to your daily routine—a small but powerful step toward finding calm and restoring balance.

References

1. O’Hara, M. W., & McCabe, J. E. (2013). Postpartum depression: Current status and future directions. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology.

2. Brummelte, S., & Galea, L. A. (2016). Postpartum depression: Etiology, treatment, and consequences for maternal care. Hormones and Behavior.

3. Kendall-Tackett, K. (2007). A new paradigm for depression in new mothers: The central role of inflammation and how breastfeeding and anti-inflammatory treatments protect maternal mental health. International Breastfeeding Journal.

4. Groer, M. W. (2005). Differences between exclusive breastfeeders, formula-feeders, and controls in immune function, mood, and maternal-infant bonding. Biological Research for Nursing.

HORMONAL & PROUD

Created as a brand to help women navigate the toughest moments in pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum — and practically every stage of life –– The SABI is changing the narrative around our hormones from one of taboo, embarrassment, and loneliness to awareness and even, pride. As more than a wellness brand, The SABI offers a carefully-crafted line of products to carry you through your hormonal journey, including rituals, supportive tools, and ancient herbal remedies that have been tested time and time again by women and now come backed by medicine. The SABI is a blend of science and nature conceived by women who have experienced the joys and deep struggles of bringing a child into the world, the pains of a heavy, difficult period, miscarriage, and difficulty conceiving.

We invite you to get to know your body and its cycles better –– to really understand what is going on inside. Learn to use your hormones to your advantage no matter your stage of life, and know that you can support and balance your hormone levels. We are here to help with the information, understanding and natural tools to support your body and the emotional process along with it.

DISCLAIMER

The SABI blog and articles are not meant to instruct or advise on medical or health conditions, but to inform. The information and opinions presented here do not substitute professional medical advice or consultations with healthcare professionals for your unique situation.