Pregnancy is usually a happy time, but pregnant women are not so far away from antenatal depression. Some moms do not dare admit that they feel depressed or avoid seeking help because they feel ashamed.
If you find yourself in such a situation, talk with your partner, your doctor or midwife as soon as possible.
When a pregnant woman said his morale is low or she feels depressed, her family must pay attention to her and listen. If she shows more persistent sadness or loss of interest in usual activities, it could be antenatal depression. According to the studies on this subject, about 10% of pregnant women suffer from moderate or severe depression during pregnancy.
If a woman has already suffered from depression before becoming pregnant or a family member has had this problem, it is more likely to experience depression during pregnancy.
Symptoms of antenatal depression
Mood changes, fatigue and sleep disorders and appetite are common at certain times of pregnancy. However, they can also be symptoms of depression if they last longer than average. Other symptoms of depression to watch for:
constant sorrow
feelings of hopelessness, guilt and worthlessness
recurrent suicidal thoughts or macabre, inability to concentrate or to continue their usual activities
too much appetite or lack of appetite. Changing eating habits is stronger than what is the norm during pregnancy
inability to sleep or tired.
Pregnant women who are depressed are more likely to engage in unhealthy practices, then they should do just the opposite. For example, a woman may fail to attend appointments for prenatal care, eat properly or get enough rest or eating harmful substances like tobacco, alcohol or drugs. These behaviors can cause premature labor or cause the baby to have a little weight.
How to treat antenatal depression ?
A pregnant woman who feels depressed or experiencing depressive symptoms should speak to their doctor or the midwife. In many cases, it is useful partner accompanying her doctor or her midwife, because he will participate in treatment.
Mild depression
The symptoms can be treated with a healthy diet, regular exercise, sufficient sleep and stress reduction measures (relaxation exercises, yoga, etc.)..
Severe depression
A drug may be prescribed. It should then discuss with the doctor and the pharmacist side effects and consequences on the mental health of the mother and the developing baby.
Postpartum depression
Approximately 25% of women who feel depressed during pregnancy suffer from "postpartum depression" depression following the birth of the baby.
It is normal to feel a little sad or anxious during the first two weeks after birth. During this period, the new mother needs the attention and support of everyone around her. However, if it shows signs of antenatal depression constant or persistent, we must act. Both parents should consult a doctor or midwife to determine how to treat these symptoms. It is easier to treat depression early, before it becomes too serious.
If the mother is depressed during the first year of life her child will experience more difficult to attach to it, and vice versa. The father and other members of the immediate need to ensure that the mother gets antenatal depression help she needs. As she recovers, the father may need to take over and help maintain contact with the baby. In this case, the father must also provide an extra dose of love and stimulation to the baby that it grows properly.
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