Depression during pregnancy - reasons for what to do. How to deal with depression during pregnancy

Pregnancy is definitely a wonderful time. But sometimes it is overshadowed by psychological problems.

One of the most common conditions during this period is depression, which is diagnosed in about 10% of expectant mothers.

It is important to understand that this problem is a rather serious disease that can adversely affect the condition of the child. Therefore, it is very important to consult a doctor in time.

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The reasons

For a long time, it was widely believed that during the period of bearing a child, certain hormones are produced in the female body that prevent the appearance of depressive states. However, over time, experts noticed that stressful situations and physical exercise, which often accompany pregnancy, significantly increase the likelihood of developing depression.

Additional problems for expectant mothers only exacerbate their condition. For example, one of the most common factors leading to depression is relationship difficulties with the baby's father.

Also, depression during pregnancy can be due to the influence of such factors:

Constant stress	Problems at work, quarrels, moving, divorce, etc. often lead to such violations.
Low salary	During the bearing of a child, the financial situation of the family is of particular importance. If earlier a small income caused only a slight disappointment, then during pregnancy it can cause severe panic and anxiety, because the upcoming cares for the baby fall on the shoulders of future parents.
Psychophysical problems	In this case, we are talking about toxicity. Constant nausea and unsatisfactory physical condition significantly worsen the mood of a woman. If the pregnancy was also unplanned, the risk of developing depression increases significantly.
Negative past pregnancy experience	Medical psychologists say that depression can be associated with unsuccessful childbearing or infertility. Also, the risk of psychological disorders increases if the pregnancy occurs after a miscarriage, difficulties with conception, a large number medical procedures.

Some women face disrespectful treatment during childbearing, which also provokes emotional disturbances. Depressive states often occur in expectant mothers who have suffered from emotional or physical abuse in the past.

At risk are women who already had depression before pregnancy. Also, the likelihood of developing this disorder is higher in those whose relatives suffer from psycho-emotional disorders. This history can cause both prenatal and postnatal depression.

First trimester	Psychologists call this time the period of denial. Despite the birth of a new life, future mom is not yet aware of his situation and does not take it into account when planning his own activities. Such problems are quite common, since the woman does not yet feel the baby's tremors, in addition, the stomach is absent at this time. Of course, this situation is possible only if she does not have toxicosis. This period is considered quite difficult, because significant changes occur in a woman's body. Of course, they also affect the nervous system. The mother-to-be faces all sorts of fears and stressful situations. Depression during early pregnancy may be due to the inability to do things you love or the need to give up habits. Mood swings and irritability are quite common in the first trimester. It is not necessary to say at the first symptoms that a woman has developed depression. Moreover, such manifestations are considered one of the first signs of pregnancy. If such changes have become protracted, there is talk of death and the meaninglessness of existence, it's time to sound the alarm. Depressive conditions at this time can have a variety of consequences for the expectant mother and child. Canadian scientists managed to establish that children in the future may face sleep disorders, problems in mental development, and be underweight.
Second	At this stage, a woman is already aware of her position and begins to plan her future life. Psychologists call this period the search for the lost object, which is understood as favorite work, everyday life, entertainment. However, it is at this time that many women open up new opportunities. At the same time, sensitive representatives of the weaker sex, who are prone to depression, may face quite serious psycho-emotional problems. Depression develops under the influence of various factors. It can be problems with loved ones, sleep disturbances, changes in the balance of hormones, an unfavorable financial situation. During this period, there is a strong relationship between depression and pregnancy. Negative thoughts come from weight gain, lower back pain, breast engorgement, or an increased urge to urinate. It was at this time that a pronounced relationship arises between physical changes and the psychological state of a pregnant woman.
Third	This period is even called depression, because even the most balanced women lose control of their emotions. They constantly think about the complexities associated with caring for a child. Very often there is a feeling of hopelessness and loneliness. Often, women are dissatisfied with their partner, who does not have to make adjustments to their lifestyle. depression during pregnancy later dates occurs very often. These problems are exacerbated by major physiological changes. The abdomen acquires an impressive size and interferes with normal movement. Many women believe that they have lost their attractiveness, and this often causes increased resentment and tearfulness. The emotional state is significantly aggravated due to physical and psychological fatigue. Before childbirth, women can behave quite strangely. They try to retire, take long walks in the fresh air, prepare things for the child. However, these features do not at all indicate the development of depression.

Symptoms

In order to notice depression in a timely manner and provide assistance to the expectant mother, you need to know what signs are characteristic of this condition:

Deterioration of mood	The first symptom of this disorder is a persistently bad mood. A pregnant woman is not happy. Of course, negative emotions are sometimes replaced by a good mood, but this is extremely rare. If therapy is not started on time, then periods of positive emotions will occur less and less.
high anxiety	With the development of depression, a woman experiences panic fear. First of all, it concerns premature termination of pregnancy - this phobia can become an obsession. A woman constantly expects trouble, which leads to tearfulness and emotional instability. Sometimes she can cry for no reason.
Apathy	The expectant mother loses interest in the events taking place around her. In difficult cases, she is not even interested in preparing a dowry for a child. AT similar situations a woman sits or lies for hours, completely immersed in depressive thoughts.
self-flagellation	Sometimes expectant mothers begin to blame themselves for literally everything, and they can do it for no reason. In such cases, a pregnant woman may consider herself a burden on loved ones. She is sure that she will not be able to cope with maternal functions. Such thoughts can completely deprive a pregnant woman of rest.
Sleep problems	During the period of bearing a child, women often lose their sleep rhythm. They may suffer from insomnia or increased sleepiness. However, insomnia is more common. The expectant mother cannot sleep because of negative thoughts and experiences. A constant lack of sleep negatively affects the emotional state of a woman, which creates a vicious circle.
Increased aggressiveness	Emotional instability can manifest itself in the form of the appearance of unreasonable aggression. In such cases, a woman literally turns into a fury, which does not allow everyone around her to live normally. At the same time, the expectant mother herself suffers from such a situation, because she is aware of the inadmissibility of her own behavior.

The effect of depression during pregnancy on the fetus

Doctors say that depression quite strongly affects the development of the child and his health in the future. If this violation is not dealt with in a timely manner, the following consequences may arise:

miscarriage;
premature birth;
insufficient body weight of the child at birth;
the development of respiratory failure in the baby;
early childhood mortality;
neurological disorders;
depression in the baby in the future;
hyperactivity and other mental disorders in a child.

Depression is associated with an increase in the stress hormone cortisol. This poses a real threat to the life of the child. Therefore, this disease should not be left to chance - it can cause tragic consequences.

In addition to the fact that depression negatively affects the condition of the child, it can lead to the development of postpartum neurosis. As a result, a woman simply will not be able to fully care for the baby.

She will not be able to experience the joy of motherhood. Therefore, depression during pregnancy should never be ignored.

How to help yourself

To minimize the likelihood of developing depression or reduce its manifestations, a pregnant woman must follow certain rules:

Respond in time	The sooner you notice depression and take action, the easier it will be to eliminate its symptoms. To do this, you need to relax and have fun as much as possible. If you like shopping, then you should go shopping, and for those who love nature, you definitely need to go on a picnic.
Organize the right way of working	To avoid increased stress, you need to carefully plan your day. It is best to do this in the evening. It is important to remember that the schedule should not be very tight, otherwise there is a possibility that you will not have time for everything. Problems like this will only make things worse.
Get yourself a good rest	During the period of bearing a child, a woman should rest a lot. Do not take on all the household chores. In such a situation, it is better to ask relatives for help. Remember that fatigue is very dangerous for the expectant mother. It can accumulate, which as a result will cause increased irritability and depression. Such conditions are fraught with the appearance of depression.
Keep track of nutrition	Everyone knows that a properly composed diet is very important for the normal well-being of the mother and the unborn baby. If you don't eat well enough, you're more likely to develop depression. If the disease has already appeared, it can lead to a decrease in appetite. Therefore, a pregnant woman needs to make an effort on herself to eat.
Provide full range of motion	Depression often causes apathy, which invariably reduces physical activity. To improve your condition, you need to try to move more. At the same time, it is worth remembering a sense of proportion and avoiding overwork. To improve your mood, you can do water aerobics or just walk in the fresh air. As for walking, doctors advise doing them at least 2 hours a day. Thanks to being away from home, the emotional state of a woman is significantly improved, because monotony is not in the best way affects her health.
Take care of your appearance	Every woman wants to look perfect. If you do not take care of your appearance, the depressive state only worsens. Therefore, in any conditions, it is worth allocating time for self-care. To improve your mood, you can buy a new thing or visit a beauty salon.

How to behave to close people

Quite often, close people fail to understand the emotions and experiences of the expectant mother. They begin to get angry and nervous, to advise the woman to pull herself together. However, she is unable to do so.

In fact, during depression, the expectant mother needs the support of loved ones more than ever. However, she does not always realize that she needs help. Thanks to the correct behavior of relatives, a woman will be able to quickly overcome depression.

It is very important for her family members not to succumb to the mood of the expectant mother. To do this, you need to constantly remind that depression is a temporary phenomenon, and therefore the condition of a pregnant woman will soon return to normal. It is very important to avoid criticizing the expectant mother, do not blame her. At the same time, it is important to remind that she is not to blame for the appearance of this condition.

Of course, she needs a good rest. However, if you fully assume her responsibilities, there is a risk that the woman will feel unwanted and abandoned, and this will only worsen the situation.

Depression during pregnancy is a serious problem faced by many women. In no case should this condition be left unattended, because it negatively affects the health of the woman herself and the development of her baby. If depression has severe manifestations, you should definitely consult an experienced doctor.

While for some women pregnancy is one of the happiest periods of their lives, for others it is a time of turmoil, fear and uncertainty. Such behavior is often not given due importance, attributing it to one of the manifestations of hormonal imbalance, which is quite characteristic of the upcoming motherhood. Multiplied by some social problems, this condition develops into depression.

Depression should disturb the woman's relatives and gynecologists observing her, because the development of pathology affects not only her body - the baby also suffers.

In order to protect yourself from a lot of trouble, it is important to know how to deal with depression during pregnancy.

Prenatal depression, as scientifically it sounds, is more than just a mood disorder. This clinical condition, like all other diseases, needs timely detection and treatment.

The clinical picture of the disease is quite diverse: from a harmless, at first glance, lack of appetite to a willingness to commit suicide.

The biological process that characterizes depression during pregnancy entails changes in brain chemistry. During pregnancy, hormonal changes affect brain chemicals that trigger depression and anxiety.

They are exacerbated by difficult life situations. This complicates the ability to remove a pregnant patient from a pathological condition.

The probability of onset of a depressive syndrome does not depend on age: this problem affects both very young women and middle-aged pregnant women.

In addition, it also occurs in the early stages - it is important to recognize it in a timely manner and ask for help. Much depends on the personal awareness of the expectant mother and the degree of care of her relatives. It is important for them to remember that depression in early pregnancy is common.

Of all the cases identified, it has been found that the susceptibility to the disorder increases if the following factors are present:

Tensions with the father of the child (an important role is played by interpersonal relationships in a couple; the unwillingness of a man to be responsible for the future family often violates the psychological state of the pregnant woman).
Family predisposition (the risk of a mental disorder in a pregnant woman increases if the mother had such a problem).
Long-term (the state of despair that characterizes the restoration of reproductive function does not always quickly “switch” to the joy of the upcoming motherhood; when this period is prolonged, the woman is subject to such a mental disorder).
A history of or other poor pregnancy outcomes. This event is painful. Post-depression is common. The need for an artificial birth causes an involuntary fear regarding the well-being of the current pregnancy.
Stressful life events (lack of understanding of one's further actions, a feeling of hopelessness can cause hostility towards the child and one's situation in general, which undoubtedly leaves an imprint on the psyche of the future mother; often one of these problems is lack of money, unemployment or even the lack of one's own housing).
Complications during pregnancy (phenomena such as debilitating or the inability to fully perform self-care procedures affect the attitude towards oneself, because due to pregnancy a woman is forced to give up many things, as a result of which she feels unjustifiably inferior).
Intoxication or injury. Availability of current bad habits, such as alcohol abuse, as well as previous traumatic brain injuries do not go away without a trace - in both cases, changes in the structure and state of the brain occur, provoking the development of depression.

How to recognize a pathological condition?

It is difficult to establish for sure the onset of a psychological disorder, but it is possible to suspect the formation of one on the basis of some characteristic symptoms. One of them is the unwillingness of a woman to take care of herself. A pregnant woman does not strive to look good, ignoring the elementary rules of hygiene.

Also, a woman who is depressed shows indifference to the development of her child. Non-recognition, unwillingness of one's own pregnancy is one of the reasons for such a detached attitude towards her.

A psychologically healthy future mother with great and understandable enthusiasm rereads the literature on child care, delves into the details of communication with the baby, consults with a specialist on what tactics to follow so that the child grows up healthy, fills in every possible way the existing gaps in knowledge.

Tearfulness is also one of the characteristic signs of depression during pregnancy. It has no basis, is not caused by any really sad events, but lasts a long time, repeats itself often, ends each time in a different way.

In most women who are prone to psycho-emotional disorder during pregnancy, this condition begins with whims, demands to please her fleeting whims, a negative answer is not accepted or is perceived extremely negatively. This behavior ends with an attack of aggression, a desire for solitude.

A woman during depression experiences an oppressive sense of hopelessness. The perception of a child as a heavy burden that hinders career growth, takes time and causes a change in figure for the worse - makes a woman feel depressed.

You can determine the attitude to life by her statements, conversations or lack thereof. Sometimes the expectant mother prefers to lead an isolated lifestyle, being pregnant with an unwanted, in her attitude, child. Isolation should be a wake-up call for relatives and medical staff.

Untreated depression can lead to complications such as:

loss of appetite;
physical exhaustion;
tendency to suicidal behavior;
aggression, which often initiates the development of severe cardiac, vascular and neurological disorders;
offensive;
the birth of a small, lethargic child with low basic reflexes;
the appearance of problems in the physical and intellectual development of the child as he grows up.

There are two types of depression in women:

The woman is in a depressed mood; she often lacks the strength or desire to adequately care for herself and her child.
Excessively active behavior of a pregnant woman complicates the task of the doctor to provide medical care. The task is further complicated by the fact that the aggression of the mother is reflected in the condition of the fetus. Seeing such a clinical picture, in most cases, obstetricians, together with a psychiatrist or neuropathologist, prescribe sedatives. Those who took antidepressants during pregnancy later note that their children have difficulties with the development of the school curriculum, delayed physical development, soreness.

The difference between depression and bad mood

A bad mood is a short period of unwillingness to perceive the surrounding reality. Expressed in negative reviews specifically about the annoying factor. Depending on individual vulnerability, the range of negative reviews of a pregnant woman may expand.

Under the influence of positively acting factors, the normalization of lifestyle, the achievement of the desired - this condition quickly passes.

Threats to commit suicide most often remain at the level of verbal warnings, without developing into something more. Appetite is not only present, but also significantly increased - the pregnant woman "seizes" the problem, being distracted from thoughts about the annoying factor and delighting herself with delicious dishes.

Depressive syndrome is deeper and more protracted. It can rarely be confused with just a bad mood.

It is characterized by the following features:

A pregnant woman limits communication.
Refuses food.
She has difficulty concentrating.
Drowsiness or, conversely, insomnia.
Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy.
Recurrent thoughts of death, suicide, or an obsessive sense of hopelessness.
Anxiety.
Feelings of guilt or worthlessness.
Over time, headaches appear, stomach problems that do not go away.
Doesn't attend antenatal clinics.
Does not follow the recommendations of the gynecologist.
Knowingly uses harmful substances such as tobacco, alcohol or drugs.
Often seeks to get rid of pregnancy, using various methods.

How can pregnant women overcome depression?

There are many effective methods treatment. But often such patients are in no hurry to seek medical help. Although, at the same time, they do not know what to do with depression during pregnancy.

You need to change your lifestyle. It is important to take care of yourself not only physically but also emotionally.

Depression requires:

Increase rest time. Fatigue exacerbates mood swings.
Spend time outdoors. Being in nature reduces stress and blunts symptoms of depression.
Stick to a balanced diet. Regular snacking will help keep your blood glucose levels in check and keep you in a good mood. Avoid caffeine, sugar and processed foods. Instead, opt for a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids (try eating mostly walnuts, fish, and eggs) to reduce the risk of depression during pregnancy.
Do sports that are allowed during pregnancy, such as swimming. Regular physical activity increases the level of the hormone of joy. Regular aerobic exercise is just as effective in treating depression as taking antidepressants.
Distancing yourself from unnecessary stress is the key to managing your bad mood. Postpone major life changes, such as moving or starting a new job.

Do not try to confront a mental problem on your own. Discuss your feelings. If you're worried about not being able to raise a child, are afraid of the unknown, or have any other fears, don't keep it to yourself. Get support from a partner, family, friends.

Many mistakenly believe that seeking help while suffering from this disorder is shameful and unacceptable. In fact, recognizing that specialist help is needed is a big step towards recovery.

Useful video about the causes of depression during pregnancy and how to treat it

I like!

It happens that during the day the feeling of joy is repeatedly replaced by irritability, anxiety. However, just a bad mood is not depression yet.

What is depression?

Depression (from the Latin word depression - suppression) is a serious mental suffering. For this disease, in addition to reduced mood, a negative perception of the situation, oneself in this situation and in the future is characteristic. That is, being in depressed state, a person is sure that everything is bad, that he himself is a complete insignificance and is not able to cope with this hopeless situation, and in the future it will be even worse.

depression in women observed in two, and according to some researchers - and three times more often than in men. This is partly due to the better detection of depressive disorders among women, as they are more willing to talk about their emotional experiences. But the main reason lies in the close connection of a woman's emotional state with the functioning of her neuroendocrine system. This connection is most noticeable during critical periods of hormonal adjustment, one of which is pregnancy.

Naturally, depression during pregnancy occurs far from every woman, and, according to recent data, even somewhat less frequently (approximately 9-20%) than in general in women of childbearing age (10-25%). And although the symptoms of depression during pregnancy are much milder in intensity than those observed in the postpartum period, they adversely affect the health of the woman and the development of the fetus, being a factor in the development of various pregnancy complications.

"I am depressed"

To the main risk factors for development depression in pregnancy should include:

Availability depression before pregnancy. The risk of exacerbation of depressive symptoms increases especially sharply when treatment of an existing depressive disorder is interrupted.
Depressive disorders in close relatives - parents, grandparents, brothers and sisters.
Unwanted pregnancy, when the birth of a child is perceived as something negative, painful.

In all these cases, one should pay particular attention to fluctuations pregnant mood.

depression during pregnancy

It is understandable when depression is caused by some really negative event: the collapse of hopes due to unwanted pregnancy, bitter disappointment, break with the father of the child, death loved one.

It is more difficult to understand when, it would seem, the weight is in order: the woman herself is healthy, the child develops normally, the husband takes care, they appreciate it at work - live and be happy. But there is no joy, but, on the contrary, despondency gradually seizes the expectant mother more and more. Why is this happening?

In occurrence depression during pregnancy the role of both biological and socio-psychological factors is noted. As already mentioned, during pregnancy, the body undergoes a global restructuring, which can lead to a violation of neuroendocrine regulation, a decrease in the level of transmission of nerve impulses in the central nervous system, and, as a result, to the formation of depression.

In addition, the period of pregnancy is full psychological stress when a woman's habitual lifestyle changes: business activity decreases, all actions are subject to bearing a child.

Risk of occurrence depression during pregnancy rises if a woman has irrational ideas: “It is necessary that all people love, appreciate and respect me”; “Everything should be exactly the way I want”; “I have to succeed, if it doesn’t, then it’s just terrible.” Such thoughts keep a woman in constant tension, she quickly gets tired, loses optimism and self-confidence.

Manifestations of depression

during pregnancy

The main symptoms of depression include low mood and an inability to enjoy ordinary life situations. The inability to rejoice is accompanied by a wide range of experiences - from aggression towards her husband to unwillingness to live.

The first signs start of depression there may be alarming concerns about their condition, the outcome of pregnancy, the possibility of miscarriage. From anxiety it is difficult to sit still, a woman is in constant expectation of trouble. I feel very sorry for myself and want to cry. Tears start for any reason, flow and flow without stopping. Sleep is disturbed: because of negative thoughts it is difficult to fall asleep, early awakenings are especially painful - there is no sleep and no strength to get up. Appetite may disappear, but may increase. Gradually growing sadness and apathy. A feeling of complete impotence, hopelessness and hopelessness develops, when there is no strength to perform even the simplest things. From this, the pregnant woman feels like a burden for her relatives and friends, she experiences a sense of guilt. The head is filled with negative thoughts like: "I could do better"; "I'll be a bad mother"; "I don't deserve this, I'm not worth anything"; “Everything is difficult for me”; " I am depressed».

Surrounding, even the closest, sometimes not able to understand what is happening, they advise “not to be upset”, “pull yourself together”. If a woman could do this, she would definitely do it, but, unfortunately, it is not in her power.

Help is needed in this situation. psychotherapist. With severe depression during pregnancy with a sense of hopelessness, suicidal thoughts (thoughts of suicide), you should immediately consult a doctor.

How to know if I have depression

The severity of depressive symptoms can vary. The duration of symptoms for more than two weeks helps to distinguish a depressive disorder from a short-term lowering of mood.

Should think about depression during pregnancy if five or more of the following symptoms persist for more than two weeks.

Constant feeling of sadness and emptiness. Loss of interest in activities that were previously enjoyable.
Loss of strength, exhaustion, lethargy.
Inability to concentrate, remember, make a decision.
Feeling the futility and emptiness of one's existence.
Lack of appetite.
Decreased sex drive.
Sleep disturbance (insomnia, early awakenings, excessively long sleep).
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness.
Desire to isolate yourself from others.
Thoughts of death or suicide.
Excessive tearfulness, irritability.
Any long-term pain that does not respond to treatment.

To identify depression during pregnancy and assessment of its severity, various rating scales are used (the Beck scale, the Hamilton scale, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, etc.).

The Depression Rating Scale (derived from the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale developed by Zigmond A.S. and Snaith R.P. in 1983) can be used for self-testing.

The scale must be completed by yourself. Don't think too long about each statement. The first reaction will always be more correct.

When evaluating the results, the total score is taken into account, while three areas of values are distinguished: O-7 - no symptoms of depression; 8-10 - mild severity of symptoms of depression; 11 and above - significant severity of symptoms of depression.

Something that brought me great pleasure and now makes me feel the same way.

0 - definitely so

1 - probably so

3 is not true at all.

I am able to laugh and see funny in this or that event

0 - definitely so

1 - probably so

2 - only to a very small extent it is so

3 - not at all capable

I feel energized

0 - almost all the time

1 - sometimes

2 - very rare

3 - I don't feel at all

It seems to me that I began to do everything very slowly

0 - not at all

1 - sometimes

3 - almost all the time

I don't care about my appearance

0 - I take care of myself the same way as before

1 - maybe I began to devote less time to this

2 - I don't give it as much time as it should

3 - definitely so

I believe that my activities (occupations, hobbies) can bring me a sense of satisfaction

0 - exactly the same as usual

1 - yes, but not to the same extent as before

2 - significantly less than usual

3 - I don't think so

I can enjoy a good book, radio or TV program

1 - sometimes

3 - very rare

How to deal with depression during pregnancy

Typically, antidepressants are used to treat depressive disorder. However, their appointment to pregnant women is undesirable, especially in the first trimester of pregnancy due to the risk of a teratogenic effect (the formation of fetal malformations). However, if symptoms are severe, treatment with antidepressants may be necessary. Therefore, when deciding on the appointment of antidepressants to a pregnant woman, the doctor in each specific case compares the risk of potential drug harm to the fetus with the risk of negative effects of depression on both the fetus and the mother.

The most commonly used drugs for treatment of pregnant women are tricyclic antidepressants(TCAs or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)). As it turned out after a series of studies, the reception of these medications during pregnancy does not increase the incidence of intrauterine fetal deaths or serious fetal malformations. The development of the fetal brain, if the mother took TCAs or FLUOXETINE during pregnancy, did not differ from its development in healthy children. At the same time, one study reported a decrease in neonatal weight after treatment with fluoxetine in the third trimester of pregnancy.

Antidepressants are drugs that normalize a painfully depressed mood. Currently, the most widely used tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs): AMITRIPTYLINE, ANAFRANIL, MELIPRAMINE and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): FLUOXETINE, PAXIL, ZOLOFT, CIPRAMIL, etc.

Unfortunately, newborns whose mothers took antidepressants during pregnancy may experience some deviations from the normal state.

For example, tremors, increased heart rate, decreased gastrointestinal activity, urinary retention, respiratory failure, difficulty feeding, diarrhea ( liquid stool) and others. Therefore, antidepressants are used in the most severe cases, when a pregnant woman with depression refuses to eat, does not sleep, thinks about suicide.

A serious therapeutic alternative to antidepressant treatment is electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) - the use of electrical discharges to induce a convulsive state for therapeutic purposes. The mechanism of the effect of electric shock has not been fully studied - one of the assumptions is that under the influence of an electric current, the action of stress hormones that destroy brain structures stops, the growth of nerve cells, the growth of cerebral vessels, and the connections between brain cells are restored.

This method is especially good when it is required to achieve a quick and reliable improvement in mental state. Contrary to popular belief, ECT is a fairly safe treatment for severe depression during pregnancy. Numerous studies have proven the safety of ECT for pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy.

Fortunately, most pregnant women develop minor depressive symptoms when occupational psychotherapy2 dispenses with drug therapy or ECT. The most commonly used are therapeutic hypnosis and cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a highly effective treatment for depression. The therapeutic effect is achieved by identifying and correcting unrealistic conclusions about oneself and the world around. In the course of treatment, individually or in a group, the psychotherapist explains how thoughts affect the emotional state, teaches to identify negative thoughts and replace them with rational ones that more adequately reflect reality. Having mastered the skills of rational thinking, a woman adequately perceives the events taking place, reacts more constructively to her condition and the situation as a whole. Participation in group therapy, in addition, allows a woman to understand that she is not alone in her depression. The group allows the expectant mother both to receive support from other members of the group, and to help others herself.

AT depression during pregnancy the help of close relatives is very important, even when the pregnant woman does not ask for it. The correct behavior of relatives will help a woman to quickly get out of a painful state. To do this, it must be remembered that depression is a disease that needs sympathy, but in no case should you dive into the disease along with the pregnant woman, sharing her pessimism and despair. You need to be able to maintain a certain emotional distance, all the time reminding yourself and the patient that depression is a transient emotional state. Studies have shown that depression is especially unfavorable in families where many critical remarks are made to the patient. Try to let your wife know that her condition is not her fault, but her misfortune, that she needs help and treatment. You should not concentrate on the illness of a loved one, it is better to bring positive emotions into your life and into the life of your family. If possible, try to involve the pregnant woman in some useful activity, and not remove her from work.

The most pregnant woman, in order to avoid depression, or, moreover, having felt her first symptoms, needs to take care of herself: relax and have fun more. Be sure to find someone who will help with the housework. Do not exhaust yourself with homework. Your pleasures should be put in the foreground, and household chores - in the second or even third.

The best thing to do is to plan your classes. To do this, the night before, draw up a schedule for the next day. It is worth making an effort to create a good mood for yourself, the spent forces will not be lost.

A pregnant woman needs a good rest. You need to sleep more, take less responsibility, leave more to others. Otherwise, over time, fatigue accumulates and develops into irritability, depression.

Be sure to eat well, even if you have to make an effort on yourself. depression during pregnancy causes loss of appetite, and poor nutrition exacerbates depression. If the appetite is excessive, you should also pay attention to it.

Since lethargy is one of the manifestations depression during pregnancy, need physical activity. It's good to walk more, do exercises. Part of the day should be spent outside the home, and let it become a habit.

It's important to take care of yourself. Like poor nutrition, a sloppy appearance contributes to depression. Ideas about. that there is no strength, even for more important matters, do not stand up to scrutiny. If a woman looks good, she is more likely to feel good. A visit to the hairdresser, a facial massage, along with a daily shower, will cheer you up.

You need to watch your negative thoughts. Pay attention to what you think up, try to understand how rational thoughts are, whether their content corresponds to objective reality. To do this, one should treat one's seemingly unshakable considerations as hypotheses that need proof. It is worth first listing the arguments proving the validity of this thought, and then looking for arguments that refute it. It is not surprising if there are more refuting arguments. Consequently, the thought was erroneous and must be replaced with a more rational (more correct) one. For example, the thought “I am ugly and my husband no longer loves me.” Evidence for this idea: "I don't like myself." Evidence against: "Appearance changes during pregnancy." "Friends and acquaintances say that I have become prettier." "My husband is attentive to me." There are clearly more arguments that refute the original thought. Therefore, it does not correspond to reality and needs to be replaced with a more suitable one. Let's say, "My husband values me very much."

The next time you catch yourself in such pessimistic experiences, tell yourself "stop" - and switch to a positive thought, remind yourself that there really is more good than bad.

Pregnancy is a wonderful period in a woman's life! Many pregnant women have gone through depression and come out of it safely. Depression is painful, but it will pass!

Women are much more likely to be "sick" than men. They are more willing to share their psychological problems with others. Depression during pregnancy is not just a negative mood, it is a persistent state of pessimism and anxiety that lasts 2-3 weeks. It is characterized by negative thoughts, an inability to overcome problems, a feeling of insecurity.

Prenatal depression is influenced by the inner world of a woman. Numerous experiences regarding early pregnancy, awareness of their role in the later life of the crumbs and other circumstances make the expectant mother dive deep into her thoughts. If resistance to stress is at zero, the risk of developing a pathological condition increases.

During pregnancy in a woman, depression can appear under the influence of internal and external irritating factors:

stress against the background of an unexpected "interesting situation";
poor living, social conditions: lack of own living space, negative home environment, lack of support from loved ones);
financial instability: loans, loss of permanent income;
unwillingness of relatives or spouse to have a child;
severe pregnancy: the risk of pathologies in the embryo, toxicosis, unbearable weakness;
hereditary predisposition to depression;
persistent miscarriages, debilitating infertility therapy;
dysfunction at the hormonal level, especially from the thyroid gland;
suffered a psychological blow;
prolonged treatment with sedative or psychotropic medications.

The development of depression during pregnancy can be observed under the influence of negative heredity, physical or psychological abuse, or other emotional upheavals. In each individual situation, the pathogenesis of the pathological condition is individual and treatable.

Prenatal depression develops when resistance to stress is at zero

What symptoms should alert

Pregnancy and depression can proceed in different ways. One category of expectant mothers is excessively whiny, they are tormented by insomnia, they are constantly afraid of something, which as a result causes the appearance of suicidal tendencies. However, the pathological syndrome is accompanied by a number of symptoms, in the presence of which the syndrome can be diagnosed.

Depression during pregnancy is manifested by the following symptoms:

Excessive irritability.
Sense of anxiety.
Lack of focus.
Poor or increased appetite.
Fatigue, weakness, bad mood.
Fear of walking.
Increased suspiciousness, guilt towards others.
Daytime sleepiness.
Low self-esteem, feeling of joylessness, hopelessness.
Closure, feeling insecure.
Tearfulness, constant tantrums.

At the first symptoms of prenatal depression, a woman should tell her loved ones about her problem. This state cannot pass on its own, but it is realistic to cope with it if the solution of the problem is approached with all responsibility.

The spouse and relatives should surround a woman who is in an “interesting position” with care and attention. It is necessary to analyze what causes could cause such a state, they should be disposed of. Regarding the "spleen" - they will help to cope with it simple ways(shopping, chatting with friends, watching movies, walking).

Pregnant women have daytime sleepiness

How the condition of a woman is reflected in the baby

It has been established that depression in a future mother affects the development of the embryo and the health of the baby. This condition can have the following consequences:

increased risk of early labor;
abortion;
the birth of a baby with a small weight;
early mortality (still in infancy);
oxygen starvation of the brain;
neurological pathologies;
cerebral palsy;
depression in the baby in the future;
violation of the psyche, behavior, hyperactivity.

Depressive syndrome is accompanied by elevated levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, which increases the risk of abnormal fetal development. The disease should not be treated as a simple "spleen" and let it take its course - this can cause serious consequences.

Pregnant women need, first of all, to help themselves on their own: to receive positive emotions, drive away bad thoughts, listen to calm music. You can ignore your condition, but the health of the baby should come first.

Prenatal depression of pregnant women is not only a real danger for the baby, but can also cause the development of postpartum neurosis, which will lead to the complete incapacity of the mother. The joy of the birth of a baby will pass unnoticed, warm feelings will be completely absent.

At the beginning of pregnancy, it is possible to cope with this condition. A woman, before becoming pregnant, must prepare for this not only physically, but also mentally.

Mom's depression affects baby's development

Depression at various stages

There are many reasons for the occurrence of a pathological condition in girls who are expecting a child, despite the fact that this is an exciting and joyful period for them. The causes of mental disorders at different times may differ.

Pathological syndrome in the 1st trimester

All women in an "interesting position" should know how to deal with impending tearfulness or sadness in order to prevent the development of a more severe syndrome. Depression in early pregnancy can be observed in the following cases:

Financial difficulties, the girl may worry about how she will support the child.
A tendency to tearfulness, blues - during pregnancy, they may also be present.
In the first trimester there was a threat of miscarriage, then negative thoughts, anxiety accompanies the woman even after the danger has passed.
Isolation, some girls, due to the specifics of their work, communicate with people, and while waiting for the baby they have to stay at home.
"Spleen" in the 1st trimester happens if the pregnancy is not planned.
Strong shock: serious disease death of a relative or friend.
Moving from a permanent place of residence.
Problems of a personal nature.

But most often, the expectant mother has no reasons for the development of a depressive state. Relatives help around the house, the husband blows off dust particles, the woman does not experience financial problems. But even in this situation, she is not immune from "spleen", tearfulness.

Depression in pregnancy often develops due to changes in hormone levels. Even before menstrual bleeding the mood, as well as the behavior of the girl, suddenly begins to change.

In autumn and winter, the development of a pathological condition can be facilitated by the reproduction of melatonin (hormone), which regulates the biological rhythms of the body, constantly catching up with drowsiness. It is generated at night and destroyed during the day. Melatonin is a sedative of natural origin and if its amount is normal, the girl will not suffer from insomnia. In autumn, it is produced with a vengeance.

The threat of miscarriage in the first trimester can lead to depression

depression in the 2nd trimester

A woman carrying a child moves to a new stage in the development of physiological and emotional development. Her former lifestyle is completely changed: she loses her job, communicates less with friends, does not visit noisy places. With the first movements, the baby begins to worry about him, really realizing that her life will completely change after giving birth.

In the second trimester, a girl can fulfill herself in other directions, sign up for courses to master new profession. Or constantly listen to your inner state, gradually falling into a depressive state. Most of the women coped with their problem by doing their favorite hobby.

If a pregnant woman has a tendency to excessive suspiciousness, apathy, then the second trimester will be accompanied by severe headaches, a deterioration in mood due to an increase in the uterus in size, unpleasant discomfort in the back, and other complications.

depression in the 3rd trimester

Doctors often call the last weeks of childbearing a period of "prenatal apathy." Panic attacks that are impossible to cope with can appear even in the most calm ladies. This happens for various reasons.

Depression during the first pregnancy in the third trimester is mainly observed due to the fact that:

girls are alarmed by the very process of labor activity, especially if they have known cases with a negative outcome;
a growing tummy, pain in the back make the lady helpless, this causes a negative mood, tearfulness, excessive tenderness for others.

Depression during the first pregnancy in the later stages is considered a safe pathology that a lady is able to overcome without outside help, after her hormonal background will return to normal.

Doctors say that anxiety, stress, constant tantrums before labor activity have a direct impact on the child. And if a pregnant woman does not follow her emotions, there is a risk that the baby will constantly cry, fall asleep badly, lag behind her peers in development.

Severe pathological conditions in the third trimester of pregnancy can be corrected with the help of potent drugs - antidepressants, which is very undesirable. But with the first symptoms and a timely appeal to a psychologist, you can get by with a physiotherapeutic method.

The expectant mother is excited about the approach of childbirth

Anxiety treatment

How to cope with depression during pregnancy on your own, in order to prevent the development of a severe syndrome, every girl who is expecting a baby should know. Simple tips will help get rid of tearfulness, fear and "spleen":

There is no need to try to do everything before the birth of a child: buy a crib, equip a room for him, make repairs, draw up all reports for 6 months in advance. In the first place should be well-being, as well as well-being. Waiting period for baby best time to take time for yourself, then you have to take care of the crumbs.
Every day you need to do exercises. Moderate loads make it possible to feel emotional, moral satisfaction.
Find yourself an exciting hobby, learn to overcome a negative attitude. To engage in an interesting business for which there was not enough time until that time: to become interested in reading books, drawing, knitting, swimming.
A pregnant woman should communicate more often with her family, spouse. If a woman cannot cope with her emotions, you need to openly tell her about the existing problems.
If a woman is tired, falls down, she needs to try to rest more, not to overload herself. Let the spouse massage the feet, lower back.
While carrying a baby, special attention should be paid to the diet. Eliminate extra calories, supplement the menu with fresh vegetables, fruit platter, dairy products. Refuse sweet, starchy foods.
It is necessary to look at everything that is happening from the outside, one should not draw sudden conclusions.
Walking in the park, outdoor recreation will help fight depression.
You can not try to cope with the problem on your own with the help of medications. You should not use antidepressants, as well as drugs that the pregnant woman took before the “interesting position”.
Protect yourself from negative information. Avoid watching movies with violent, bloody scenes.
Try to create home comfort, buy interesting trinkets, decorate the room with flowers, but only without a strong smell.
A woman in a position should learn to love herself for who she is. Try to understand the beauty of what is happening and the upcoming event.

Camping with your loved one is the best fight against depression

Very simple tips will help to cope with despondency, tearfulness, bad mood and "spleen". If the depressive state does not go away, bad thoughts are constantly disturbing, it is better for a woman to contact a psychotherapist for advice. It is not necessary to delay the treatment of a depressive state, this negatively affects the condition of the fetus and the health of the unborn baby.

You don't have to try to fix the problem on your own. You need to discuss your feelings and thoughts with loved ones. If the expectant mother is worried that she cannot cope with the upbringing of the baby, she is frightened by the unknown and tormented by other fears, does not know how to help herself - she should not become isolated. You need to get support from friends, acquaintances, spouse.

Fears and anxiety during pregnancy should be treated as a serious pathology that requires timely adequate therapy. Otherwise, it can cause irreparable harm to the health of the mother and child. In some cases, prolonged depression leads to suicide.

It is necessary to start complex treatment with psychotherapy, in the absence of an effect, proceed to taking medications. All actions must be performed strictly in consultation with the doctor, since many therapies are not applicable to pregnant women. In order to avoid side effects from taking medicines, you must first carefully read the instructions.

Depression in pregnancy is a mental disorder that occurs in most women during childbearing and is characterized by severe anxiety, moral fatigue and depression for a long time. What are the methods of treatment and prevention of this disease, you can learn from this article.

Causes

This condition does not occur in all women who are in position. Often the cause of this disorder is the presence of a depressive illness even before the onset of pregnancy, as well as the abolition of the medication prescribed by the psychotherapist.

The onset of depression often occurs when pregnancy was not included in the plans of the expectant mother. Also, experts advise paying attention to diagnosing such a condition in the next of kin, since a depressive disorder may be associated with a hereditary factor.

Another cause of depression should include various material problems, stressful situations, unsuccessful pregnancy at various times, severe course (toxicosis, complications).

And sometimes such a condition in a woman expecting a child can occur without any reason. But it should be noted that any stress and negative emotions can provoke this disorder in a pregnant woman.

Signs of depression

Experts identify several signs that characterize the above condition:

sleep disorder;
disinterest in the outside world;
causeless remorse;
loss of appetite;
fatigue;
difficulty concentrating;
feeling of anxiety;
easy excitability;
inhibition of the reaction;
frequent migraines;
suicidal thoughts.

Often, most women in the situation have sharp mood swings from joy to apathy. However, a hallmark of a depressive state is prolonged exposure to negative emotions and thoughts, which can worsen significantly over time.

In some cases, self-diagnosing depression in a woman who is expecting a baby is quite difficult, since some signs may characterize the normal behavior of pregnant women or various physiological ailments, for example, thyroid disorders. Therefore, with any signs of depression, it is necessary, first of all, to contact a specialist to rule out other health problems.

Features of prenatal depression in different periods of pregnancy

Depression can have different causes and signs at each stage of expectation of a child. A woman comes to the realization that her life will change dramatically, and, as a result, the expectant mother may experience fear, tension and anxiety, which, with prolonged exposure to the psyche, can provoke depression.

On the early term there is a restructuring of the body, and this period is characterized by changes in the behavior of a woman, such as irritability, excessive emotionality, depression. This behavior is typical for most expectant mothers. You should be wary when a pregnant woman begins to talk about the meaninglessness of her life, and she develops suicidal tendencies. Most often, in the first trimester, depression occurs against the background of moral unpreparedness for the birth of a child.

In the second trimester the development of a depressive state is facilitated by natural changes in the body of a woman, lack of sleep, as well as the lack of support from loved ones. Experts note that it is at this stage of the gestational period that the risk of prenatal depression is higher, since the physical and emotional state in the second trimester is more closely related.

In the third trimester due to physical and moral fatigue, negative thoughts may arise, a woman feels ugly, clumsy. Due to natural changes in the body, a pregnant woman has to almost completely change her lifestyle, which, in turn, is a factor in the occurrence of a depressive state.

What is the danger of prenatal depression?

Depression during pregnancy not only has an extremely bad effect on the well-being of a woman, but also negatively affects the development of the fetus, especially in the early stages.

Experts say that newborns whose mothers were depressed in the first months of pregnancy may be born with insufficient weight and developmental delay, as well as sleep problems.

Also, if a woman experiences strong negative emotions for a long time, the risk of spontaneous pathological abortion increases, complications of the course of this period, as well as a significant deterioration in the well-being of the expectant mother.

How to treat depression in a pregnant woman?

To correct such a disorder, it is necessary to seek the help of a psychotherapist. Often, first of all, the specialist prescribes therapy sessions, in which he finds out the cause of the depressive state, and also, together with the patient, looks for ways to eliminate the negative factor. In some cases, joint therapy with the father of the unborn child is necessary, since it is this approach to treatment that gives faster and more positive results.

Drug treatment is prescribed only in the absence of a positive effect from treatment with psychotherapy, since most drugs have a negative effect of varying degrees on the development of the fetus. Often, tricyclic antidepressants (Amitriptyline, Melipramine) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (Fluoxetine, Cipramil) are used for therapy.

The need for the use of the above drugs, as well as the dosage, can only be prescribed by the attending physician.

Therapy with the help of these medications, subject to all the recommendations of the doctor, does not provoke serious deviations in the development of the child. However, in some cases, the newborn may experience heart palpitations, disruption of the respiratory system, and digestive problems.

For the treatment of a depressive state in a woman during pregnancy, it is also possible to use electroconvulsive therapy. The essence of the method is the use of electrical discharges that block the effect of the stress hormone on the body. According to studies, this method of treatment does not adversely affect both the expectant mother and the development of the fetus.

A lack of vitamins can lead to a depressive state in a woman, so a properly balanced diet and selected supplements will also help normalize the condition.

Folk recipes

Additionally, you can use various recipes from traditional medicine, however, it is first necessary to consult with specialists who will select the most effective and, most importantly, harmless means:

Chinese Lemongrass. This remedy helps to improve mood and has sedative properties. For cooking, you need to take 10 g of dried berries of this plant and grind thoroughly. Next, they should be poured with a glass of boiling water and insisted for 20 minutes. It can be used instead of tea with the addition of honey or sugar.
Passionflower. This tool has a slight sedative effect, it can be combined in combination with drugs. 1 teaspoon of the above plant must be poured with an incomplete glass of water and infused for 15-20 minutes. Then you should drink this infusion during the day.

Carrot juice. Such a vegetable helps not only to reduce anxiety and despondency, but also has a beneficial effect on the digestive system and improves elasticity. skin. During pregnancy, it is necessary to drink a glass of fresh carrot every two days, add to food or eat 100 g of raw carrots as a snack.
Aromatherapy. Carrying out such procedures will help to significantly improve the emotional state of a woman in position. The only contraindication to aromatherapy may be the presence of severe toxicosis, in which various odors of oils can worsen the condition of a pregnant woman.

For the above procedure, you only need to select natural oils. Tangerine (improves mood), petitgrain (relieves stress), Ylang-ylang (calms the nervous system), lavender (eliminates insomnia) are perfect.

You can use a special lamp to fill your home with the scent you like or add a few drops to a spray bottle. Another way is to use aromatic pads, which are easy to make yourself or buy in specialty stores. They can be placed in a closet with clothes or arranged in a room.

Massage. For a massage that not only improves mood, but also helps to get rid of fatigue and pain, it should be used as a base olive oil, adding 1-2 drops of aromatic to it.
Bath . To take a bath, the oil must be dissolved in a small amount of milk and only then added to the water.

Regularly performing such procedures helps to relieve stress and speed up the healing process.

How to treat and prevent depression on your own?

There are several tips that will help not only prevent, but also get rid of depression that has already begun:

In some cases, the appearance of a depressive state is preceded by a lack of light. Women who are expecting a baby should walk more often in sunny weather, avoid dark streets at night, and also take care of good lighting in their home.
Psychologists recommend limiting the presence of dark tones in clothing during pregnancy, since such a wardrobe leads to depression. If there is no desire to give up dark tones, you can simply add bright accessories. The same rule applies to the situation in the apartment - several bright jewelry in the room can significantly improve mood.
If there are no contraindications, it is advisable to move a lot. You can sign up for special yoga courses for women in position, go on a short trip. Even just daily walks in the fresh air will help to cope with a depressive state.
Psychologists recommend during pregnancy to set yourself up for positive thinking and enjoy your position. You can think over the design of the room for the unborn child, buy a few pieces of clothing or furniture.
It is necessary to block negative thoughts, since they are the main factor in the development of depression. If you are overwhelmed by unpleasant thoughts or memories, you need to learn how to be distracted.
As you know, delicious food helps to improve mood. Therefore, if there are no contraindications, you can eat more bananas, seafood, oatmeal. Chocolate also helps improve mood.
It is necessary to limit the flow of negative information. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid frequent viewing of various films and TV shows with a difficult plot and an unhappy ending, as well as news, which often show releases that aggravate the poor mental state of the pregnant woman.
The most important thing in the fight against depression is an optimistic view of the world. Therefore, it is necessary to try to find the positive in all the little things. In such an attitude, it is much easier to overcome the above condition.

Depression during pregnancy (video)

In this video, a psychotherapist talks about the main causes of depression during pregnancy, as well as methods for dealing with such a disorder.

With the right therapy, prenatal depression in women responds well to treatment and often does not cause relapses. However, the lack of timely assistance, as well as the support of loved ones in a depressed state, can lead to a complicated course of pregnancy, fetal developmental disorders and severe suicidal tendencies.