Depression During Pregnancy

Depression During Pregnancy

Depression During Pregnancy; Pregnancy depression is a problem seen in approximately 20% of expectant mothers. Pregnancy is a period when expectant mothers experience many emotional states together and are exposed to many hormonal changes. For this reason, depression can be seen. In addition to feelings such as happiness, joy, and excitement, fear and anxiety can also be present. Therefore, it is necessary to have information about the hormonal balance experienced during pregnancy. Especially those with a history of depression, problems in family relationships, financial problems, and stress experienced before or during pregnancy can lead to depression during pregnancy.

Hormonal changes during pregnancy occur for the body to prepare for pregnancy and for the healthy development of the baby. For this reason, expectant mothers may notice changes in their thinking patterns due to increased hormone secretion. Factors such as future concerns for the baby, doubts about the spouse, vital concerns, and financial situation can cause these thoughts to be at the highest level and lead to depression.

What is Prenatal Depression?

Depression During Pregnancy is depression that occurs during pregnancy. Depression causes ongoing or extreme sadness. It can also cause anxiety, fatigue, and sleep problems. If you have this mood disorder, you may withdraw from family and friends. You may lose interest in activities you once enjoyed.

Depression during pregnancy can affect you at any time during pregnancy. Postpartum depression (PPD) is depression that develops after you have a baby. It’s important to note that prenatal and postpartum depression are different from the “baby blues.” The “baby blues” usually resolve within two to three weeks. Meanwhile, prenatal and postpartum depression do not go away without treatment. Depression symptoms sometimes improve with lifestyle changes. However, if they don’t, providers treat the condition with therapy and medications. If you have prenatal depression, you are not alone. Depression is a common medical condition, and treatments can help.

Who Gets Depression During Pregnancy?

Anyone can get prenatal depression. You’re more likely to get it if you or a family member has a history of:

• Anxiety disorders.
• Panic attacks.
• Mental illnesses, including obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
• Mood disorders, such as depression and postpartum depression.

Prenatal depression is more common in women who:

• Are carrying a child with a health condition or special needs.
• Are coping with stressful life events, including divorce, health problems, financial problems, or work problems.
• Are you expecting twins or triplets?
• I wasn’t planning on getting pregnant.
• Aren’t having a supportive partner or friends and family during pregnancy.
• I was having difficulty getting pregnant because of infertility.

Depression During Pregnancy

How Common is Depression During Pregnancy?

It is very common. Researchers believe that depression is one of the most common problems that pregnant women face. In general, about 10% of adults experience persistent feelings of depression.

What Causes Depression During Pregnancy?

A number of factors play a role in people who become depressed during pregnancy. One of the main factors is having a history (or family history) of mood disorders. During pregnancy, hormone levels change, which can affect mood. Depression can be caused by an imbalance of chemical levels in the brain. Many women feel sad or anxious about the changes that are happening to their bodies. They may experience pregnancy discomfort. They may have financial concerns and worry about taking on new responsibilities. For those at higher risk of depression, these changes can be overwhelming.

What are the symptoms of depression during pregnancy?

Everyone feels sad, anxious, or worried at times. It’s normal to feel this way sometimes, especially during pregnancy. But symptoms of depression don’t go away after a few days. They can last for weeks or months and get worse over time. Symptoms of depression during pregnancy include:

• Anxiety, excessive worry, and irrational thoughts.
• Changes in appetite and unexplained weight loss or gain (not related to the pregnancy).
• Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed. Or withdrawal from friends, family, and social interactions.
• Fatigue, sleeping more than usual, or difficulty falling or staying asleep (insomnia).
• Sadness, hopelessness, numbness, “emptiness,” or feelings of guilt.
• Irritability, excessive crying, or other mood swings or changes in mood.
• Loss of interest in sex and difficulty connecting with your partner.
• Physical symptoms that aren’t caused by a medical condition or another cause. These can include headaches, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal (GI) problems.

Problems concentrating, remembering, reasoning, or making decisions.

In severe cases, women with this condition have thoughts of harming themselves or a developing fetus. If you have thoughts of harming yourself or suicide, call emergency services immediately and get help.

How is depression diagnosed during pregnancy?

If you have symptoms of prenatal depression, it’s important to get an evaluation. Your healthcare provider will ask you about your symptoms. They’ll want to know when they started and how often they occur. They may recommend that you see a mental health professional (such as a psychologist, therapist, or counselor). This professional can provide a comprehensive evaluation and treatment. Tell them if you have a history or family history of depression or other mood disorders.

How is depression treated during pregnancy?

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that helps you think about your worries and behaviors in a different way. Over time, you’ll develop new thought patterns. You’ll discover how to respond to certain situations in a more positive way. Interpersonal therapy (IPT) allows you to improve the way you interact with others. It also helps you develop relationships and gain support from social groups. Medications that treat depression . Ask your healthcare provider which ones are safe to take during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, allows you to talk through your feelings and develop ways to cope. An experienced therapist can help you manage mood swings and feel better.

Depression During Pregnancy

How to Cope with Depression During Pregnancy?

• Find a supportive network: Connecting with other parents-to-be allows you to share your concerns. You’ll learn from people who know what you’re going through. Call your local hospital and ask if they can recommend a support group or other resources.
• Make health a priority: Get plenty of exercise during pregnancy. Focus on eating well, taking prenatal vitamins, and getting enough sleep. Quit smoking and avoid alcohol, as these are dangerous for both you and your developing fetus. Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can cause fetal alcohol syndrome. Better physical health often goes hand in hand with improved mental health.
• Preparing for your baby: Keep your prenatal care appointments. Learn about fetal growth and milestones, and take time to prepare for your baby’s arrival. Knowing that you’re ready for birth and beyond will help you feel better.
• Staying active: Make it a point to spend time with friends or get out with your partner. Interacting with others and getting out of the house can have a big impact on your mood.
• Try meditation: If you’re feeling a lot of stress or anxiety, try yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises. There’s a connection between stress management and emotional health. Learning some relaxation techniques can help you feel better.

How can I reduce my risk of depression during pregnancy?

You may not be able to prevent depression during or after pregnancy (Depression During Pregnancy). If you have had depression or anxiety before or have a family history of mood disorders, you are at higher risk. Talk to your provider about the symptoms to watch for so you can get help.

What should I expect if I have depression during pregnancy?

For most women, Depression During Pregnancy symptoms improve with treatment. Therapy, medications, and lifestyle changes can significantly improve your outlook. Keep in mind that you may need a combination of medications and therapy to improve your symptoms. You may also need to try different types of therapy or medications.

How does depression during pregnancy affect fetal development?

Untreated depression can be dangerous to a developing fetus. Depression During Pregnancy can make it harder for you to care for yourself while you are pregnant. You are more likely to make unhealthy choices, such as drinking alcohol, smoking, or skipping exercise. All of these choices affect fetal health. In severe cases, women with prepartum depression can harm themselves or their developing fetus.

When Should I See a Doctor for Depression During Pregnancy?

If you have symptoms of depression during or after pregnancy, get help right away. Safe, effective treatments are available. If you have thoughts of harming yourself or the developing fetus in your womb, get emergency medical help.

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