Pregnancy And Baby Care Articles During Pregnancy

• Tweet
• 

Women who have been depressed before pregnancy are at a higher risk of depression than other women. Depression during pregnancy, if severe will have far reaching affects on both the mother and the baby. The risks include poor prenatal care, unhealthy eating habits, preeclampsia and poor weight gain among others.


However, there is hope at hand as there is a range of treatments available.

Signs of depression in pregnancy include :

• A feeling of lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty in focusing
• Suicidal thoughts
• Feelings of guilt
• Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
• Restlessness/agitation
• Lack of interest in what is happening around her

These symptoms usually last for two weeks or longer. If you have any of these symptoms, it is advisable to contact your doctor who will decide on the next course of action. Depression can be treated in several ways. Women can go for counseling or for therapy.

There are natural ways to cure depression during pregnancy. Some of these are :

• Acceptance: This is the first step to curing depression. Accept that the depression is normal and that you can work through it. Talk to your spouse or a close friend about what is worrying you and try and get over it. Believe that you can get over it. If you are in doubt, contact a medical professional.
• Adopt a healthy routine: Plan out your day and list the activities you wish to do. Include walking or exercising or even meditation in the morning so that you can calm yourself and be in a stable frame of mind.
• Stay focused: Keep yourself involved in the everyday domestic chores. Stay connected with family and friends. Be in tune with nature.
• Massage therapy: This has been known to alleviate depression symptoms.
• A good diet: Ensure you follow a healthy diet which includes meat, fruits, vegetables, bread, and dairy products.
• Sleep well and try to keep toa regular sleeping schedule.

Depression medications in pregnancy are usually not recommended. Antidepressants may lead to severe health problems in the fetus. These may cause congenital malformations in the baby. Do check with a medical professional before taking any antidepressants.

Read more articles from the During Pregnancy Category.