Pregnancy is usually associated with feelings of joy and happiness because of the upcoming arrival. However, the March of Dimes estimates that as many as one out of every five pregnant women will experience depression at some point during her pregnancy. Knowing the signs and symptoms of prenatal depression will enable you to get the help you need to enjoy your pregnancy.
Changes in Feelings and Activity
The most common sign of prenatal depression is feeling down or sad the majority of the time for at least two weeks. You may cry more than normal. While hormonal fluctuations and mood swings are common during pregnancy, your feelings should be balanced or leaning more toward happiness. If you feel sad more than you feel happy or complacent, you may have prenatal depression. You may also feel anxious for no reason. Loss of interest in activities, such as preparing for the baby, is common in women with prenatal depression.
Changes in Eating Habits
You may find that you eat significantly more or less if you have prenatal depression. Both of these situations can cause problems for you during your pregnancy. If you eat too much, you will gain too much weight. If you eat too little, you won't have all the nutrients needed to keep you and your baby healthy.
Changes in Sleep Habits
A woman who has prenatal depression may notice changes in the amount of time she sleeps. You may sleep a lot more than normal. If this is the case, you may be tempted to attribute this to regular pregnancy tiredness. However, having trouble sleeping is another sign of prenatal depression. You may notice that you don't have as much energy as usual and you may find it hard to concentrate on simple tasks.
Serious Warning Signs
Thoughts of suicide are an uncommon, but not unheard of, sign of prenatal depression. If you feel the need to hurt yourself or someone else, contact a mental health professional immediately.
