Faqs About Major Depression During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, your physical health is not the only concern your obstetrician has. He or she is also concerned with your emotional health. Depression during pregnancy is not uncommon. Due to the pregnancy, there are special considerations that must be made while treating the condition. If you are suffering from depression, here is what you need to know.

Are You Suffering from Major Depression?

Major depression can interfere with your everyday life and make it challenging to properly care for yourself and your unborn child. The mental condition is marked by several symptoms, including an overwhelming feeling of sadness, guilt, an inability to sleep, and loss of interest in activities. Other symptoms of major depression include aches and pains that will not go away and a lack of energy throughout the day.

Unfortunately, depression can have an impact on your unborn child's health. The possibility of premature birth and a low birth weight baby are increased with the development of depression. The effects could carry over into the child's life when he or she is born. Your child could be more irritable, less attentive, and less active.

Are You at Risk?

There are some people who are more likely to experience major depression than others. For instance, if you have a history of mental illness, you are more at risk of having depression during your pregnancy. The same is true if you are currently under a considerable amount of stress.

Depression is more likely if you have money problems, have no support from family and friends, or you are in a domestic violence situation. If you have a history of abusing drugs or alcohol, there is also the possibility of developing depression.

What Can You Do?

One of the most important steps you can take is to inform your obstetrician that you are suffering from depression. He or she can closely monitor your condition to determine if the condition is having any impact on you and your child's physical health.

Your obstetrician will likely refer you to a therapist for treatment. When visiting the therapist, it is important that you inform him or her that you are pregnant. Some anti-depressants can be harmful to the baby. 

If the therapist does recommend medication, you need to talk to your obstetrician before taking it. There are some drugs that negatively interact with others. If you are taking other medications during your pregnancy, you need to verify the safety of taking the anti-depressant. Talk to a pregnancy care professional, such as at Vita Center For Women LLC , for more help.