Mental Health

Mar 05

Pregnancy And Depression

Many women may not realize it, but pregnancy and depression can go together, especially if there are other factors involved. If you are a single person facing an unwanted pregnancy, you are three times more likely to suffer depression than a woman carrying a planned baby who is in a stable relationship with the expectant father. At times, even women who have planned their pregnancy may get depressed, sometimes simply because of the large amounts of hormones present. Doctors estimate that every one in between ten and twenty women who are pregnant will suffer from some depression. Depression during pregnancy can be caused by your age during the pregnancy, because younger women show higher rates of pregnancy related depression. Living alone can also cause depression risks to be higher, as can having no social support, having other children, marital problems, and the pregnancy not being expected or desired.

Depression can have a big effect during your pregnancy, and if it becomes severe you may need medical treatment for this disorder. Depression can make it hard for you to take care of yourself, sleeping all night may be difficult, and you may find yourself not eating properly because depression can make you lose your appetite. Depression can also come between you and your baby when they are born, making it harder to form a normal parent child bond. Treatment is available if you suffer from depression, and it is important that you seek treatment, especially if you are pregnant. All women may feel a little blue at times during pregnancy as a result of changing hormones, but if the depression lasts longer than a couple of days, or if it interferes with your daily activities, you should see your doctor for treatment options. If you are pregnant and feeling depressed, you may also feel guilty for being depressed at what is portrayed as a happy time, but you should not feel this way. Reassure yourself that what you are feeling is normal and experienced by many women. Pregnancy is full of ups and downs, and depression during this time is nothing to be ashamed of. Your doctor can help you cope with severe depression.