Understanding Pregnancy Depression: What You Need To Know

Emotional upheavals that occur during the course of pregnancy can make some mothers-to-be more prone to depression than others. This is unlike postpartum depression because perinatal depression appears while bearing the fetus. However, it comes with all the regular symptoms of clinical depression, hence the condition can be easily identified and treated the same way.



About 14 to 23 percent of pregnant women exhibit at least a few symptoms of depression, as per data revealed by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and American Psychiatric Association. But unfortunately if not addressed earlier, it could continue post birth and could potentially result in neglect of the child.

Misconception Stands in the Way of Treatment

Dr. Gabby Farkas, medical director of Pearl Behavioral Health based in New York, who treats mental health issues of such women, said that depression is confusing to women since people believe that pregnancy is supposed to be the happiest time in a woman’s life. This is not always the case because women experience a whole spectrum of emotions, Farkas told Healthline.

This negative perception often comes in the way of getting the help women need. Therefore, it should be noted that women experience a range of feelings toward themselves and others during this trying time. They could display more sensitivity to things around them. For example, a disorganized room or sudden cancellation of plans can put them on edge.

Similar Symptoms to Usual Pregancy Bodily Changes

Miniscule events can lead to crying, shouting or fighting and other emotional outbursts. Hormonal changes during a pregnancy alters the brain chemistry of women and possibly disturbs their emotional balance. Most commonly, it is the thyroid hormone. If timely intervention is provided to them, they could be in better shape to look after their children and themselves. It is important to address perinatal depression without stigma and make the expectant mothers comfortable enough to discuss their mood swings in the open.

Oftentimes, the symptoms are similar to the symptoms that accompany a pregnancy, hence it can be mistakenly dismissed as a nonissue. When in fact, the symptoms could be indicative of something deeper such as depression. Disturbed sleeping patterns, change in libido, less energy and appetite are symptoms of depression as well, as per Mayo Clinic.

Source