I'm a first time mom, I love my babygirl more than I thought I could ever love anything in the world. She has tested me in every way possible. Lately I feel as though I could pull my hair out. She's almost 5 months old, she's so fun when she's happy and smiling and "talking" but those moments are few and far between. She has acid reflux and is only truly happy when being held. She screams for hours if you put her down and refuses to stop. I don't know if I can handle it anymore. I am trying so hard to be the perfect mother and wife. I want to have nothing but fun, happy days with my little babe and husband. It seems impossible though. I just haven't felt right since giving birth, I'm basically sad. every day.

That's my life, in a very small nutshell.

I typed a long reply, then got kicked out.. so the short version is...

It sounds like you might have the baby blues. I suffered from them until my daughter was 18 months old because I was afraid to admit that I wasn't always feeling happy and overjoyed with my new precious daughter.

I had lots of moments that were great and lots of moments when I knew I should be happier, better, more motherly...

Try "mother to mother" they are a great support group. Do research in your area for support groups for the baby blues. Just knowing I wasn't alone and talking to other mothers made everything different/better for me.

I'm in Missiouri, where are you located?

PS my friends daughter doesn't have any health issues and is 8 months old, and will not be happy unless held. Even at night. You are not alone. It's not anything you are doing or not doing.

Sounds like you are experiencing postpardum depression. I would highly suggest seeing your doctor for medication or a referral to a therapist. Your not alone I experienced PD till my son was almost 18 months old. Try and see if you have family and friends that can help out

I was having similar thoughts and feeling, until my husband made me go talk to someone. I now attended a support group once a week.

The most important thing to remember is your not alone and you are a good mother!!

All great replies above! If you look up online there should be places in your neighboorhood that have infant groups for moms usually once of twice a week. You are probably feeling isolated and need to vent and this will help. They usually have someone watch after the babies while you get a chance to share your experiences and get some tips and just have mom time.

Also with the acid reflux have you tried having her sit up when she sleeps? My daughter slept in her car seat until she was almost 5 months old! They also have the nap nanny things but they are about $150 and since your daughter is probably getting ready to roll over if not doing so already that would kind of be a waste of money. As soon as my daughter could roll over with ease I started putting her on her tummy to sleep which helped a lot!

Remember you aren't alone and you can never be the perfect wife or mother, you are doing your best and that's what matters! Trust me I have those days since I'm a single mom, feelings of being overwhelmed and not doing everything "perfect" but when your baby reaches each milestone you know you are doing it right. :) Good luck!