Depression

Many women suffer with symptoms of depression during pregnancy. Read on to learn the causes and how to prevent and deal with depression during pregnancy and after that.The entire year of child bearing which includes pregnancy and post natal is full of anxiety and tremendous psychological and physical changes in the woman. Until recent past it was believed that pregnancy hormones took care of these feelings and hence no harm to women or their child was expected.But the fact is that pregnant women need lot of support, emotionally and physically, so that they take care of themselves and cope with all the problems during this life changing period. The bouts of depression is also related to what pregnancy means to the woman and how she deals with her body image and changes that occur physically and psychologically. In this articleWhy am I depressed when I should be on top of the world?What factors can put women at risk for depression?Symptoms of depression during pregnancyEffect of depression on pregnancyEffects of pregnancy on depressionWhat to do when depressed during pregnancy?Why am I depressed when I should be on top of the world?Mood swings are common in the first trimester. Close to 10% of women face mild to moderate depression. The lows can be consistent or frequent. Common symptoms include sleep disturbances, changed eating patterns, fatigue, loss of interest in daily activities, and exaggerated mood swings. These symptoms should not last for more than two weeks.The trick is to follow a healthy diet and exercise plan and cut down on caffeine, sugar and chocolates, as these are substances that result in a false high in blood sugar levels.What factors can put women at risk for depression?Many of the following conditions could make women susceptible to occasional bouts of depression. In extreme cases, women have been advised to go in for therapy or take anti-depressant medication as prescribed by their obstetricians.Socioeconomic stressA family history of personality disordersLack of emotional supportHospitalisation or complete bed rest advised due to a high risk in pregnancyAnxiety about your own or your babys health and safetyAge of pregnancyProblems in marital lifeHistory of mistreatment or traumaStressful events of lifeInitially treated for infertilityComplications in pregnancyMiscarriage in pastPremenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD or PMS)Financial stressMother of multiplesHaving childrenThyroid imbalanceWith any form of diabetesAmbivalence during pregnancySymptoms of depression during pregnancyDepression can go undiagnosed because many women often dismiss their feelings and let them go thinking them as temporary moodiness. So, if you are pregnant, do not feel shy about sharing your feelings with your doctor. Remember your emotional well being is equally important for you and your child as your physical health. Here are some symptoms to help you find out whether you are suffering from depression or not.If you are not enjoying the activities you previously didFeeling sad, overwhelmed or hopelessLack of sleepFeeling restless or moodyFeeling lack of energyAbsence of motivationLack of appetiteWithdrawing from friends and familyHaving trouble in concentrating or making decisionCrying a lotHaving problem remembering thingsHaving headaches and other pains or stomach problems that do not go awayFeeling worthless and guiltyEffect of depression on pregnancyDepression can put pregnant women at the risk of using harmful substances like alcohol, tobacco or other illegal and harmful drugs.Depression can stop pregnant women from taking care of themselves during pregnancy like not taking recommended medications, eating and sleeping properly.Depression can deprive pregnant women from having a strong bonding with their child.Effects of pregnancy on depressionDepression during pregnancy put pregnant women at high risk of suffering from postnatal depression also.Stress and anxiety during pregnancy might trigger symptoms of depression; it can be worsening of depression symptoms also.What to do when depressed during pregnancy?There is no doubt that preparing for your new baby means lot of work, but always keep in mind that your health should be given the prime importance. So, cut down the chores, take help from family members or get paid domestic help, if needed. Do things that help you relax. Talking to someone about your feelings is very important during this time. You can talk to your partner, friend, family members or anyone in the social circle. If you find problem related to appetite and sleep, you should talk to your doctor. He will prescribe you medicines that are safe during pregnancy. However, there are some nonmedical approaches also that can be opted for dealing with depression during pregnancy.What are the causes of depression and mood swings during pregnancy? How to deal with depression and mood swings during pregnancy? How to prevent depression and mood swings during pregnancy? Discuss here.