Pregnancy And The Impact On Your Mental Health

Coping with shifting emotions when you’re expecting

Most women anticipate the physical changes of pregnancy but may not be prepared for the emotional impact. Pregnancy is different for every mom and the impact on one’s emotional wellbeing also varies. For most women, it’s a mixed bag of ups and downs.

Mental Health in Pregnancy

Mental health can be affected by a number of different factors. It may be related to your personal situation – a current situation or the natural shifts we all go through in life. Pregnancy is one life stage that can be challenging and demanding and you may need additional support.

If you had a mental health issue in the past, there is an increased risk that you may become unwell during your pregnancy. Let your healthcare provider know your medical history, including your mental health history, so they can provide professional support. Pregnancy complications and physical discomforts can also be challenging to cope with on an emotional level. To learn more about these changes, see our article, Pregnancy and the Impact on Your Physical Health, in this month’s e-Newsletter.

Some of the symptoms of a mental health issue can be confused with common symptoms or complaints in pregnancy, like fatigue, low energy levels and appetite changes. You are the best judge of your own feelings. If you don’t feel like yourself or you are concerned about any symptoms, let your healthcare provider know, so you can get an accurate diagnosis.

Worry, anxiety and antenatal depression are the most common mental health issues expectant moms may experience. Antenatal depression is also known as prenatal depression and is depression experienced by a woman in pregnancy.

Do you worry about things?

These are normal, everyday concerns. You may be worried about going through labour and your baby’s birth, or how you will cope with being a new mom. Worry can be intensified by mood swings which are common in pregnancy. It’s related to changes in your hormone levels and the major life change you are going through. It is normal to have questions and concerns. Sharing and discussing these with someone you trust can help you to work through them.

Are you anxious?

Everyday concerns may lead to overwhelming anxiety and fear. This can make it difficult for you to function. Some expectant moms also experience panic attacks. During a panic attack, your heart will race (heart palpitations) and you may have shortness of breath. Anyone can have anxiety in pregnancy but you are at added risk if you have a family history of anxiety and panic attacks, have experienced previous trauma, or pregnancy complications or loss in a previous pregnancy.

There is no need to feel guilty about your feelings or try to cope on your own. There may be an underlying health cause for your anxiety, like gestational diabetes mellitus or thyroid problems. Your healthcare provider is best placed to make a diagnosis and prescribe the best treatment for you. High levels of anxiety can have a negative impact on your baby, including a higher risk for preterm birth (before 37 weeks) and having a baby with a low birth weight. Getting treatment is best for both of you.

Do you feel constantly sad?

Anxiety and depression may occur together or separately. Signs of antenatal depression are similar to other forms of depression. You may only have a few symptoms, or more and they can be mild to severe.

Symptoms:

• Feeling low on most days
• Feelings of hopelessness
• Losing interest in things you once enjoyed
• Feeling irritable and restless
• Easily angered or tearful
• Constant worry – negative thoughts
• Difficulty concentrating
• Difficulty making decisions
• Blaming yourself for problems
• Guilty feelings
• Trouble sleeping
• Changes in eating habits
• Thoughts about harming yourself

Depression is a medical condition and in most cases, can be treated. If not treated, it can increase your risk for pregnancy complications, especially if you aren’t able to take care of yourself properly. Using drugs, medication, cigarettes or alcohol to cope can be harmful to your health and your baby’s health and development. Depression can also increase the risk for  preterm birth and having a baby with  low birth weight. It can also make it more difficult for you to prepare for your baby’s arrival bond and care for them after the birth.

Rather than overlook symptoms, reach out for help. You can speak to your healthcare provider or contact your midwife or healthcare provider. If warranted, your healthcare provider may prescribe medication that is safe for your baby or refer you to a counsellor for talk therapy.

Final Word

There are a number of things you can do to maintain your mental wellbeing during pregnancy. These include eating a healthy diet, regular exercise and getting enough sleep. Finding time to relax can help you cope with stress and the changes you are going through. Consider writing your thoughts down in a journal, taking regular walks or signing up for a prenatal yoga class.

All expectant moms need emotional support. Who can help you? This may be your partner, the baby’s father, a friend, parent or grandparent.

For a holistic view on the changes experienced during pregnancy, read our article on how pregnancy can have an impact on your physical health.

Resources:  https://www.medicinenet.com/; https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/; https://kidshealth.org/; https://www.tommys.org/;https://www.thinkmentalhealthwa.com.au/; https://www.nhs.uk/ https://www.whattoexpect.com/; https://www.mayoclinic.org/; https://www.marchofdimes.org/