As many as one out of five women will be afflicted with depression symptoms during pregnancy, according to the March of Dimes. Taking the time to learn about depression during pregnancy is important because this condition can pose serious risks to both the mother and the baby.
Symptoms
Symptoms of depression include feeling sad, having difficulty sleeping or sleeping to much, low-energy, difficulty concentrating, changes in appetite, restlessness, agitation, a lack of interest in things that were once enjoyable and suicidal thoughts. An official depression diagnoses requires these symptoms to be present for longer than two weeks.
Since some pregnancy symptoms are so similar to depression symptoms, it can be difficult for some pregnant women to determine if they are actually depressed. Because of this, all pregnant women should discuss their symptoms with a doctor or mental health care provider instead of trying to self-diagnose. These professionals will be able to perform tests to determine if the symptoms are due to depression, pregnancy or some other medical condition.
Risks
Pregnant women suffering from depression and their unborn babies have great risks, explains the March of Dimes. Depressed pregnant women are less likely to receive adequate prenatal care, eat healthy and gain an appropriate amount of weight. They are more likely to have high blood pressure, use drugs and alcohol and commit suicide. Babies of depressed women are more likely to be born premature and be of a low birth-weight. After birth, women with depression have a more difficult time bonding or properly caring for their baby.
Treatment
Pregnant women should consult a team of professionals when considering treatment options for their depression. A mental health professional, obstetrician or primary care physician and a pediatrician should work as a team with pregnant women to decide which treatment presents the least risk for both the woman and her baby, suggests the March of Dimes. This team considers factors like the woman's medical history and background, the current health of the baby and the severity of the depression when making their decision. Antidepressant medication, psychotherapy, support groups or a combination approach are common treatment options.
Considerations
The decision on whether to use antidepressants during pregnancy is complicated. Taking antidepressant medication during pregnancy has risks, but discontinuing the medication or allowing the woman to remain depressed can be just as risky. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists urges doctors to consider the individual woman and the unique risks of her specific antidepressant when deciding which course of action is safest. After deciding on a course of action, doctors should monitor the pregnant woman carefully and adjust the treatment as needed.
Misconceptions
Many doctors once believed that pregnancy hormones protected women from depression, says the medical advisory board of BabyCenter.com. Many now believe, however, that the abrupt hormone changes that occur in the beginning of pregnancy disrupts brain chemistry and may trigger depression in some women. Many pregnant women mistakenly dismiss feelings of depression as just being pregnancy "moodiness" and fail to get the help they need. Pregnant women need to realize that depression during pregnancy is common; there is no need to feel embarrassed about seeking help.
Warning
Although doctors often tell friends and family members to monitor a new mom for signs of depression or suicide during the postpartum period, monitoring depressed women during pregnancy is just as important. Reporting any thoughts or comments about self-harm or suicide to a mental health professional immediately is crucial for the safety and well-being of both the mother and the unborn baby.
