Antenatal Depression

Pregnancy is supposed to be a happy time, but around 10% of women experience bouts of depression. Unlike Postnatal Depression there is very little information or support for women suffering from Prenatal depression. Many women brush over the depressed feelings as they are lead to believe pregnancy should be a happy time, or think the down feelings are part and parcel of 'normal pregnancy moodiness', but growing research points to the fact that depression during pregnancy if more common than first thought.

So what causes Antenatal Depression?

Hormone changes during pregnancy are often to blame. Whilst emotional ups and downs affect all pregnant women, some are more at risk of these feelings developing into depression than others. During pregnancy women feel many emotions, from excitement to nervousness and anxiety and this can make for a difficult time.

Other factors that can play a part include:

Family history - If depression runs in the family or if you have had bouts of depression in the past you are more at risk of depression during pregnancy.

Pregnancy complications - A difficult or worrying pregnancy can trigger depressive feelings. Also women who have experienced difficulties conceiving, or who have had a miscarriage in the past will often worry for the safety of the baby and can this can take an emotional toll.

Life stresses - If you are having to move to a bigger house of change your job due to your pregnancy it can make you higher risk. Also those in low income families who worry about the financial cost of having a baby may be affected. Women with little or no support from their partner or family are also at risk.

History of past abuse - Difficult memories can be triggered by pregnancy by those who have experience physical, emotional and sexual abuse. The lack of control over your changing body can mirror the lack of control you felt during the abuse.

Signs of Depression

Prenatal depression shows the same signs as 'normal' depression. Symptoms include:

• Anxiety
• Persistent sadness
• Sleep problems
• Extreme fatigue
• Inability to concentrate
• Inability to have fun
• Overeating or lack of desire to eat

It's worth noting that many of these symptoms will surface at some point during pregnancy are not necessarily an indicator of depression.

What can you do?

Talk it through - Talk through your worries and fears with your partner, friends or family. It can often help to put things into perspective and make dealing with it easier. Be honest with your partner, he can only help you if he knows how you are feeling.

Look after yourself - Make sure you eat well, get plenty of fresh air and enough sleep. Many women try to pack too much in, decorating and getting everything ready for the baby's arrival. But remember looking after yourself is an important part of looking after your unborn baby. You won't have much time for you time when the baby comes along so make the most of it now, read a book so or go for walks. Exercise is beneficial when dealing with depression so join an aqua natal class, or similar, which will enable you to make new friends too.

Talk to your Doctor or Midwife - They may be able to arrange for you to see a counsellor or arrange a course of antidepressants, many of which are safe to take during pregnancy. If you are feeling suicidal or are having panic attacks speak to your GP or midwife immediately.

Admitting you are feeling depressed is not a sign of weakness but a sign you are a good mother, putting yours and your baby's health first. You are not alone and the doctors have seen it before and will be able to help you

Once baby is here

Approximately 50% of those who experience depression in pregnancy go on the have Post Natal Depression. If you have sought help in pregnancy the help will already be in place once the baby is born.

Help with Prenatal and Postnatal Depression is available through the Madmums buddy scheme. This scheme is free and confidential.

This article was written by Madzwalker