Depression during pregnancy commonly does not receive the same attention as postpartum depression, but it does exist. According to the Massachusetts General Hospital's Center for Women's Mental Health, "up to 20% of women suffer from mood or anxiety disorders during pregnancy." It remains important for women to report symptoms of depression to their doctors or midwives, because this serious condition can affect the health of the baby.
History of Depression
If a woman has a family history of depression, she proves more likely to experience it herself. If she has a personal history of depression, symptoms may recur or intensify, particularly if she discontinued use of antidepressant medication just prior to conception. Typically, a woman's health care providers will discuss these issues during the preconception appointment, so they can become extra vigilant in monitoring her emotional as well as physical health.
Anxiety Over Birth
Anxiety over the unknown presents another cause of depression during pregnancy. What will birth be like? Who will be there to help in the postpartum period? How will finances work? How will the marriage change? Sometimes the unknown factors can become overwhelming and women quickly slip into a depression. The likelihood is even higher for women who have experienced a previous pregnancy loss or traumatic birth, according to Babycenter.
High-Risk Pregnancy
Women who have a high-risk pregnancy prove more likely to develop depression during pregnancy. Bedrest, multiple births and sometimes risky procedures and fear are to blame. While women in this situation are under close supervision, it becomes important for them to remember to communicate their emotions with others.
Fertility Treatments
Women who have undergone fertility treatments prior to conception may have to contend with the extra pressure of expectation. Some couples work very hard to get pregnant only to discover that the exhaustion and morning sickness make it unbearable. They may also worry whether the pregnancy will remain viable. Coupled with the more intense hormonal fluctuations that usually come with fertility treatments, a woman is more likely to experience some kind of depression.
Hormonal Fluctuations
If none of the above are factors for a woman, but she still experiences depression during her pregnancy, rapidly changing hormone levels are likely to blame. The daily, even hourly, hormone fluctuations may bring with them a host of symptoms, including despair. In this case, while the situation is temporary, it is still serious and should be communicated with caregivers.
