Depression is a sad state of mind. It is a general lack of motivation and a constant feeling of sadness.

Well, depression is very common among people these days. But there has been a spike among the cases of depression in pregnant women.

In this blog, we will deal with:

• Symptoms of depression in pregnant women

• Other problems caused due to it

• How does depression affect the unborn baby

• Stress Management Techniques to cope at home

• Post-pregnancy depression

• Steps to deal with depression

Symptoms of Depression in Pregnant Women

• Anxiety about parenthood

• Poor weight gain

• Bereft of any fun

• Avoiding people and poor response

• Low self-esteem

• Inability to cope with pregnancy

• Smoking and drinking for relief

What Other Problems Does It Cause?

Depression, in general, makes a person have a lower self-esteem. But we have all been there. However, depression also affects metabolic activity as well as puts the heart at risk.

The severity is even more in pregnant women. Moreover, depression puts the women as well as the unborn baby at risk.

Several studies have questioned the relationship between Depression and Cardiac Disease? And the answers have been positive.

Risk Factors for Pregnant Women

• Unwanted pregnancy

Women unprepared for such massive step often fall into depression.

• Body issues

Weight gain is another very common insecurity in a mom-to-be.

• Mothers of multiple children

The feeling of not being able to devout much time to family may frustrate soon-to-be mothers.

• Women with hormonal issues

The hormone level fluctuations pave the way to negative thought patterns. Therefore, you need to keep a check on it.

• Diabetic women

The production of insulin is responsible for mood swings. People with diabetic tendencies should especially look out for this.

• Poor eating habits

Pregnancy demands full care. Skipping meals or irregular meal intake can worsen a sad state.

• Marital stress

The is often due to an inability to find equal time for the husband and child while also taking care of oneself. This gives a sense of added responsibility. Therefore, it becomes very important to support women in such a state.

How Does Depression Affect the Unborn Baby?

A depressed state affects not only the mother but also the unborn baby undergoes many such emotions.

So, look out for these problems:

• Preterm delivery

• Incomplete growth of the child

• Foetal heart abnormalities

• Skull undergrowth

• Risk of being disease prone

• Shy and extremely introverted child

What are the Methods to Cope at Home?

• Go busy

• Embrace motherhood

• Yoga

• Exercises

• Celebrate yourself

• Invite friends over

• Read positive quotes

• Outing

However, if natural treatments and solutions don’t help much, seek help from doctors. Therapy or counselling sessions may help as well.

So, don’t feel shy about it. Take medications if the sadness is way too overwhelming.

Post-Pregnancy Depression

Postpartum depression is the inability to cope with changes after childbirth. It may occur due to fear and an overwhelming feeling of motherhood. Guess what, it is perfectly normal and can be treated.

Symptoms:

• Feeling low

• Anxiety

• Irritation

• Appetite issues

• Insomnia

• Feeling guilty

• Over conscious towards physical changes

Well, childbirth comes with many insecurities. It is not easily addressed, but it is genuine. Feeling irritated with the child and family is very common.

The burden and emotional turmoil can be cleared out by talking. Motherhood is life changing. Hence, it’s difficult to deal with. Therapy and medicines would also help a lot!

Steps to Deal with depression

• Try to find a side job

• Express yourself

• Observe sleeping and eating pattern

• Reach out to a friend

At-Home Treatments:

• Healthy Diet

• Exercising

• Me time

• Social interaction

• Quality sleep

• Intake of fish oils

• Try to stay away from negativity

Professional Treatments

At times, the will to console oneself does not work. Therefore, it’s advised to seek medications for postpartum depression. The anti-depressants suggested by doctors may elevate mood. If left untreated, it may go to extremes like suicide attempts by the sufferer.

Conclusion

It is natural for women to be over conscious about their pregnancy. The job stress, marital leave, and the burden of the family are difficult.

Therefore, depression during pregnancy is not uncommon. 7 out of 10 women undergo the stress cycle. The better way is to seek medication and get help. This is nothing to be ashamed of.

In fact, it would be better to accept the feelings and find solution on time. This helps create positive feelings around your pregnancy while making you feel better.

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SOURCE URL: https://www.bookme.win/blogs/20660/How-Does-Depression-Affect-Pregnancy-Risk-Factors