Natural Birth and Baby Care.com

Prenatal Depression

Experts are finally realizing that prenatal depression is a valid condition that deserves attention. If you are struggling with hard feelings do not be ashamed to reach out for help.

Even if you are not sure, but you think that you may be feeling depressed it can only help you and your baby to explore these feelings.

Many think that depression does not occur during pregnancy because of pregnancy hormones. This is not true. Studies have found depression in pregnancy to be surprisingly common - around 10% of all pregnant women experience it.

Am I Suffering From Prenatal Depression?

How can you know if the feelings that you have are depression or not? Sometimes feeling down is a normal pregnancy feeling - especially if you are dealing with a lot of morning sickness and fatigue in the first trimester.

Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, however, are not normal to pregnancy. All women feel a little anxious about bringing a new baby into the world (even if their pregnancy was planned and hoped for). But if you find yourself battling to get out of bed in the morning you may want to seek help. Even if you can get yourself through your routine every day you might realize that you are having hopeless, sad feelings much of the time.

How to Get Help

It is important to realize that depression during pregnancy does not mean that you are a bad mother or a bad person. As I noted above, prenatal depression is surprisingly common. If you are struggling, find someone you can safely talk to. It may be your doctor or midwife. You will probably find that your midwife will be especially willing to help you work through any issues troubling you.

You can also talk to your partner or a trusted friend. If you try to talk to someone close to you and they don't understand or seem to brush you off, find another person you can talk to. People do not mean to be cruel, but sometimes they do brush off depression as "pregnancy hormones."

How can you treat pregnancy depression? Speaking to someone that you trust is often a first step. Other steps that you can take include ensuring that your pregnancy diet is excellent and that you are getting enough exercise. Even though it may be hard to motivate yourself to take these simple steps they will greatly benefit you (and your baby).

If you need more help then do not hesitate to seek counseling. Your normal care provider may be able to provide this or they can refer you to someone who can help. Even if you do not have a lot of money many counselors will adjust or waive their fees to help you. You can also explore medication, herbal, or other alternative therapy options with your care provider.

You do not need to suffer through prenatal depression. Take the steps that will help you and your baby.