Depression
Pregnancy should be a happy time in a woman's life, but many women struggle with depression while they are pregnant. In fact, about 20 percent of women suffer from depression during pregnancy, and 10 percent experience severe depression. Depression is a mood disorder that affects about one in four women at some point in their lives. Many times it is difficult to diagnose during pregnancy because it is assumed that symptoms are due to hormonal imbalances. Depression is an illness that can be properly managed and treated during pregnancy.
Mood disorders, such as depression, are biological illnesses that many times involve changes in the chemistry of the brain. During pregnancy, hormonal changes can affect the brain chemicals that are related to feelings of depression and anxiety.
Weighing the Risks
If untreated during pregnancy, depression can cause risks to the mother and the baby. It can lead to poor nutrition, weight loss, little sleep, drinking alcohol, smoking, illegal drug use, and/or suicidal behavior, which can lead to premature birth, low birth weight, birth defects, and developmental problems. Women who are depressed have a hard time caring for themselves properly, which can cause problems. Depression can arise during pregnancy, but it can also be a preexisting condition. If you suffer from depression, it should be under control with therapy and medication, if necessary, before you consider having a baby. You should talk with both your doctor and therapist about your desire to have a baby. Depression during pregnancy can also put you at a higher risk for postpartum depression after the baby is born.
Signs of Depression
Signs of depression usually present themselves for two weeks or more. Some of these may include the following:
- Persistent sadness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
- Loss of interest in activities that you usually enjoy
- Anxiety
- Feelings of guilt
- Negative self-image
- Reoccurring thoughts of hopelessness, death, or suicide
- Change in eating habits
Depression can be triggered during pregnancy by many different events, including relationship problems, history of family or personal depression, fertility treatments, previous miscarriage, stressful life events, complications in pregnancy, and history of abuse or trauma.
Never treat your depression with herbal supplements without speaking with your doctor first. Many herbal supplements, even though they are natural, can be harmful to your baby.
Treating Depression
First and foremost, if you feel you are struggling with depression, you should seek immediate help. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and feelings. Your doctor can discuss the treatment options that will be the healthiest for you and your baby. Treatment options can include private psychotherapy, support groups, medication, and/or alternative therapies such as Reiki, light therapy, or touch therapy. If your condition is severe, your doctor may prescribe medication immediately. Medications proven to be safe during pregnancy include Paxil, Zoloft, and Prozac. As with any medications used during pregnancy, the benefits need to outweigh the risks.