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Pregnancy Depression It is not uncommon for a woman to become depressed while pregnant. Twice as many women suffer from some form of depression than men do. Some scientists believe it is because of the hormonal changes that take place in a woman’s body. Others seem to think there is a chemical imbalance in the brain and different events in our lives trigger the onset of depression. It is possible that there is a combination of things which cause depression. Often women suffer from depression after childbirth (postpartum depression), during menopause, and other times when the body is making major changes. It is important that you discuss it with your doctor if you are pregnant and think you may be suffering from depression. One thing is for sure though, and that is that there is help for those who suffer from depression, no matter what form of depression it is or what causes it. There are many name brand and generic medications to treat depression and there is also therapy and alternative medications. There is a vast amount of help just waiting for you to ask for it. There are ‘self help’ options you can do to add to your treatments the doctor has recommended. If you are pregnant and suffering from depression, your doctor will have to decide the proper treatment for you that is safe for you and your baby. There are side effects from many of the medications available so it is important that you get the right treatment. Depression can be hard on the baby as well as the mother so treatment is recommended but you want the right one for you. You are not alone because there are many women suffering from depression too. There are support groups you might want to join so you can see first hand that you are not alone and others are suffering just as you are. You can help each other by talking about your problems. You may even be able to find answers to a lot of questions you have about depression. Symptoms of depression are: feelings of sadness, irritability, tension, feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, guilt, decreased ability to concentrate or make decisions, loss of energy, change in appetite( eating more or less than usual), sudden weight gain or loss (five pounds or more within two weeks), sleeping disorders (trouble sleeping or sleeping too much), and thoughts of death or suicide. If you have one or more of these symptoms, seek professional help. If you are pregnant, discuss it with your doctor so they can diagnose the problem or form of depression and begin the right treatment as soon as possible. Depression can effect the baby by slowing down his learning abilities and other problems in development. All Text Copyright © Safety2005.org |
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