Depression
Depression is something that is not often talked about, especially during pregnancy. For many women it is something they hide, chalking up their feelings to an increase in hormones. Society and the media don't help. Depression feels socially unacceptable and not normal.
Many women have a hard time realizing they are depressed. Maybe I'm just moody they tell themselves. Or they feel insecure bringing this up with their doctors. It makes them feel inadequate as a mom. Depression and anxiety are very common during and after pregnancy, so there is no need to feel alone. 85% of new moms experience the "baby blues". It is very important to be vocal about they way you are feeling, because your emotional health is just as important as your physical health.
In fact, if you are not taking good care of your emotional health, physical problems can quickly come your way. Such as preterm labor and preeclampsia or other stress induced complications.
Are You At Risk?
There are a few different things you can do to check if you are at risk for developing depression in pregnancy.
Family History
First, investigate your personal and family history. If you know that you struggled with being depressed or suffered from anxiety, before you were pregnant, or your family members have a history of depression, you are definitely at higher risk. Those crazy moody days are something to talk about with your doctor.
Breakups
Change in relationships can definitely send you into the dumps in pregnancy. Nobody likes breakups, especially not a pregnant woman. If you have a sudden change in a relationship, whether it is a husband, boyfriend, mother, or friend, make sure you are constantly talking to someone about the way you are feeling. Find professional support, if possible. This is best for yourself and your baby.
Miscarriage
If this is not your first time being pregnant, and you have previously lost a baby, make sure you stay in tune with the way you're feeling. Being moody is one thing but having experienced loss will bring up fears and anxiety, so get support. Sometimes mothers do not realize that they have not fully grieved the loss of their previous child, which leaves them experiencing a lot of sadness and anxiety. Facing your fears can help with the right kind of support.
High Risk and Complications
Many women get this idea in their head that they are going to have the perfect pregnancy. Unfortunately when a complication arises, they feel out of control. The outcome is a lot of anxiety, which in turn can lead to being sad, unhappy, and even angry. They begin feeling moody and resentful that they have been put on bed rest. They are ready to get the baby out and get back the active life they are used to.
If you have pregnancy complications and have been feeling down because of this, make sure tell someone how you are feeling (especially your doctor). Keeping your emotional health strong will in turn help your complications to not get worse. Taking control of whatever you're able to will help-one small step at a time.
What Now?
Now that you are aware of how common it is to be depressed while pregnant, don't feel embarrassed. Don't hesitate to talk to your care provider and have her help you seek treatment. Keeping your emotional health strong is so vital for that growing fetus inside you. This can be a slippery slope if not treated promptly. Know you're not alone. So please don't wait.
PregnancyYou and your baby's safety and health come first. For your free "Healthy Birth Booklet-6 Steps to a Safer Birth" filled with six simple steps that support and guide your decisions before and during labor to have a safer and healthier birth, visit the link below. http://www.birthclassathome.com Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader should contact a licensed medical professional regarding their own condition.