Pregnancy is considered one of the happiest times in a woman's life, but many women experience fear, anxiety, stress, sadness and even depression during this period. According to various studies, symptoms of depression are observed in 14-23% of pregnant women.
Depression is a mood disorder and is seen in 1 in 4 women throughout their lives. It is no surprise that this happens during pregnancy. However, since depression during pregnancy is often perceived as a hormonal imbalance, it is often undiagnosed.
This is dangerous for both the baby and the mother.
Depression must be detected and treated during pregnancy and support the pregnant woman. It is a disease that requires continued treatment.
Depression During Pregnancy
Depression during pregnancy (prenatal depression) is a clinical disease like depression. Emotional disorders are diseases that change brain chemistry.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy cause changes in the chemicals in the brain related to depression and anxiety. These changes progress and cause depression during pregnancy.
What are the Symptoms of Depression During Pregnancy?
In women with depression during pregnancy, the following symptoms last for 2 weeks or longer:
p>Persistent state of sadness
Difficulty in concentration
Sleeping too little or too much
Loss of interest in activities that he/she previously enjoyed
Thoughts of suicide and death, sadness
Anxiety
Feeling worthless and guilty
Change in eating habits
What Triggers Depression During Pregnancy?
Relationship problems
Previous family and personal depression
Infertility treatment
Previous pregnancy losses
Stress
Complications during pregnancy
History of trauma and abuse
Does Depression During Pregnancy Harm the Baby?
Untreated depression is a danger to mother and baby. If depression is left untreated, malnutrition, inadequate fluid intake, drinking, smoking and suicide attempts may occur. As a result, premature birth, low birth weight and developmental problems may be observed. The depressed pregnant woman will not want to protect herself. Babies of pregnant women with depression are more at peace after birth She becomes restless and agitated.
Treatment of Depression During Pregnancy
Treatment options: Support groups
Personal psychotherapy
Medication
Are There Natural Ways to Treat Depression During Pregnancy?
Many women try other ways to treat depression instead of using medication during pregnancy. Group treatment and psychotherapy can be applied for mild and moderate depression.
In addition, some natural methods can be used as support:
- Exercise:Seretonin level increases, cortisol levels decrease
- Rest:Getting enough sleep reduces stress and helps the body regulate itself. One should sleep at the same time and go to work at the same time.
- Nutrition:Many foods can cause mood changes. A diet low in caffeine, sugar, carbohydrates and protein leads to mental and physical recovery. Foods that will make you feel better should be eaten.
- Acupuncture: A newly used method for depression
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: It causes a decrease in depression symptoms. When taking Omega-3, make sure that it does not contain mercury.
- Herbal Vitamins:Herbal vitamins containing magnesium, 5-HTP, Vitamin B6 and SAM-e, serotonin It is effective by increasing the level of depression.
Never try to overcome your depression on your own. You definitely need support. Remember that your baby also needs treatment.
Emotional Changes During Pregnancy (mood swing)
If you are pregnant or closely caring for someone who is pregnant, you may have noticed emotional changes. You may be excited about being pregnant, and you may also be stressed. You may have constant worries.
Will I be a good mother? Will my baby be healthy? Will I have enough money to meet the baby's needs? Will I be able to do the right things for the baby? Questions like this will constantly occupy our minds.
What Causes Emotional Changes During Pregnancy?
Emotional changes during pregnancy include stress, fatigue, changes in body metabolism. It is due to changes and increase in estrogen and progesterone hormones. The change in hormone levels affects the neurotransmitters responsible for intercellular transmission in the brain, and as a result, chemical changes occur in the brain.
Emotional changes are most common in the first trimester, between the 6th and 10th months. weeks and in the 3rd trimester while preparing for birth.
What Can Be Done About Emotional Changes?
It is important to know that you are not alone during pregnancy. You should know that what is happening are changes that should be normal.
Reducing your stress level will help you adapt to this period more quickly.
For this:
You should sleep more
You should make time to rest during the day
You should do regular exercise
You should eat well
You should take a nap during the day
You should take a walk
Cinema or similar social activities should be done with friends
Yoga can be done
If emotional changes last for more than 2 weeks and feel worse, you should consult your doctor. It should not be forgotten that depression is the most common problem during this period.
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