What Is the Depression Before Birth?

Depression before birth – also known by many other names in the medical field, such as prenatal depression and antenatal depression – is a relatively unknown condition that many women experience during their pregnancies. It is a form of depression, or major depressive disorder, that occurs during or after the beginning stages of gestation. Prenatal depression generally affects about 12 percent of pregnant women although, the actual number is likely higher since the condition often goes unrecognized or undiagnosed.

Symptoms of Prenatal Depression

Prenatal depression causes a wide variety of symptoms, some of which are common with other forms of depression. They can include the following:

• • Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or excessive guilt – These are the most common symptoms of prenatal depression as well as other types of depression.

 

• • Being afraid of being alone – This is also common with other forms of depression, but can be more significant if it is affecting a woman’s pregnancy.

 

• • Difficulty sleeping or excessive sleeping – As with other forms of depression, poor sleep or too much sleep can be signs of prenatal depression.

 

• • Weight gain or loss – Sudden weight changes are common with depression, including prenatal depression.

 

• • Anxiety – Anxiety is also a common symptom of prenatal depression.

 

• • Low self-esteem – This symptom is also common with other forms of depression, but can be more prominent with prenatal depression.

 

• • Lack of interest in activities that used to bring pleasure – Prenatal depression can sap interest in activities, including regular activities like a woman enjoyed before her pregnancy.

 

Possible Causes of Prenatal Depression

It is not always clear what causes prenatal depression. Some possible causes include:

• • Hormonal changes – During pregnancy, women experience a surge of hormones, which can affect their moods.

 

• • Significant changes in lifestyle – Women experience dramatic lifestyle changes when they are pregnant, such as decreased freedom or limitations on career or recreational activities.

 

• • Stress – Stress is a major factor in developing depression, and pregnant women may be under more stress than usual due to the physical and emotional changes associated with pregnancy.

 

• • Family history – Women with a family history of depression may have a greater risk of developing prenatal depression.

 

Effects of Prenatal Depression

Prenatal depression can have a negative impact on the woman and her unborn child. It is important to recognize the signs and address the condition so that it can be treated. The effects of the condition may include the following:

• • Higher risk of preterm labor – Prenatal depression has been linked to a higher risk of preterm labor. This can be dangerous for both the mother and the baby.

 

• • Lower birth weight – Studies have shown that fetuses whose mothers suffer from prenatal depression may be born with lower than average birth weights.

 

• • Impact on the baby’s development – The baby’s development may be impacted due to the mother’s prenatal depression. Studies have linked prenatal depression to problems such as developmental delays, behavioral issues, and autism spectrum disorders.

 

Treating Prenatal Depression

It is important to recognize the signs of prenatal depression and seek treatment right away. There are a variety of treatments available that can help manage the condition and its effects. Treatment options can include:

• • Counseling – Counseling can be a beneficial form of treatment for prenatal depression. A qualified therapist can help a woman work through the emotional issues that may be causing the depression.

 

• • Antidepressant medications – Antidepressant medications, when prescribed by a doctor, can be beneficial for managing depression. It is important to talk to a healthcare provider before taking any medications during pregnancy.

 

• • Lifestyle changes – Be sure to get enough sleep, exercise regularly, take a rest when needed, and give yourself time to relax. Make sure to talk to a mental health professional to develop a plan for managing the depression.

 

• • Support groups – Finding a support network can be a big help when struggling with prenatal depression. Support groups can offer understanding, information, and encouragement.

 

Prenatal depression is a relatively unknown condition in the medical field, but it can have serious effects on both the mother and the unborn child. It is important to recognize the signs of prenatal depression, seek treatment, and create a plan for managing the condition. With the right help and support, women with this condition can have a safe and healthy pregnancy.