Program & Services

Depression During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is supposed to be one of the happiest times of a woman's life. But many women feel confused, afraid, sad, and even depressed. Many women will have depression when they are with child. Many of these women will have it worse than others. This is an illness that includes 1 out of every 4 women at some time in their life. So, it should be no surprise that this illness would also affect women who are with child. But many times, people don't get help for it. People think it is just another part of being with child. But, it can hurt the mother and the baby. This is an illness that can be helped. The first step of asking for help and support is the most important.

What is depression when you are expecting?

Being depressed when you are with child is an illness just like normal depression. It includes changes in the brain. During pregnancy the body goes through many changes that can affect the brain. These changes can lead to depression and nervousness. It can become worse with difficult life situations. This can lead to depression during pregnancy.

What are the signs of depression during pregnancy?

Women with depression usually have some of the following signs for two weeks or more:

• Feeling sad all the time
• Hard time focusing
• Sleeping too little or too much
• Don't want to do things that you usually enjoy
• Constant thoughts of death, suicide or feeling hopeless
• Feeling nervous
• Feeling guilty or that you aren't worth anything
• Change in the way you eat and how often

What causes depression when a woman is with child?

• Problems with family or friends
• Other family members who have had depression
• Getting help from a doctor when you have had a hard time getting pregnant
• If you have lost a baby during pregnancy in the past
• Stressful times in your life
• If you have had problems during your pregnancy
• If you have been abused in the past

Can it hurt my baby?

If you don't help, it can hurt the mother and the baby. It can lead to poor eating, drinking alcohol, smoking, and thoughts of ending your life. This can then cause early birth, low birth weight and other problems as the baby develops. A woman who is depressed often does not have the energy or want to care for herself or baby. This is why problems arise.

What help is available?

If you feel you may be having a hard time with depression, the most important thing is to get help. Talk with your doctor about what you are feeling and having a hard time with. Your doctor wants the best choice for you and your baby. They can talk to you about the different types of help available. This can include:

• Support groups
• Talking one-on-one with a professional
• Medication
• Other kinds of treatment

If you are having a really hard time, your doctor may want to put you on medication right away. There are approved medications that are safe to use when you are expecting. Talk with your doctor what they feel is safest for your baby, but can still help you.

If you do not feel comfortable talking with your doctor about your feelings, find someone else to talk with. The most important thing is that someone knows what you are feeling and can try to help you. Never try to do it alone... your baby needs you to get help.