Depression in pregnancy

 

It is a complete joy and bliss to be able to give birth to a child – ‘your progeny’. This is one of the happiest moments in the life of women. Motherhood is a supreme delight. This entire process of nature is miraculous. The beautiful journey and wondrous experience of those nine months is unexplainable and incomparable.  But the same is not true for many women. Sometimes the sudden rise and fall of certain hormones may cause a lot of physical and emotional upheaval.

Confirmation of pregnancy came as a sweet surprise for my close friend ‘Rashmi’, she was on cloud nine. She had been trying to conceive since last five years. But as the days passed she faced some extreme mood swings. Gradually she became more anxious which resulted in sleeplessness. Considering it to be a momentary phase due to hormonal imbalance she was asked to bear the same and keep up the courage as these episodes shall soon pass. Her condition deteriorated in the last trimester and doctor had to do a Caesarean delivery, her child was born premature. Her depression took a long time to get cured.

Depression during pregnancy is very troublesome for the mother as well as for the growth of fetus. Depression screening for pregnant ladies is very essential as we are living in the times of extreme stressful circumstances. Career, household work, strained relationships, workplace competition etc are indeed very taxing and demanding. A very good maternity care is absolutely necessary.

Some common symptoms of depression during pregnancy:-

• Less interest in activities you usually enjoy,
• Unexplained sadness and anxiety,
• Insomnia or increased sleepiness
• Persistent thoughts of hopelessness and worthlessness,
• Some may even have thoughts of suicide or death.

What to do during such times:-

• Talk to your doctor whenever you encounter any such symptom,
• Do not miss any of the antenatal health check up,
• Never take any medication without the consent of your doctor,
• Take support of family members, friends or join support groups,
• Do Mild exercise, join hobby classes or activities you like (But talk to your doctor before any physical task you undertake),
• Go for Counseling sessions,
• Take adequate rest, sleep and a healthy diet,
• As the days pass talk to your baby, try bonding with him, listen happy music.

Woman, enjoy to the most this beautiful phase of life when a new life is thriving inside you. Isn’t it precious? Do not suffer in silence any of these annoying symptoms. Communicate, smile, be in peace, eat healthy and with a happy heart welcome the newborn.