Being pregnant and welcoming a baby is a wonderful experience many women cherish. Who doesn’t adore tiny fingers and toes, sparkling eyes and toothless smiles? But as joyous as this journey can be, it often involves an emotional rollercoaster.
Some folks will tell you that the emotional ups and downs are simply part of pregnancy. They’re mistaken! Your mental wellbeing during pregnancy is vital to safeguard both you and your unborn child.
Did you know that how you feel mentally can actually influence your ability to become pregnant? It’s true! Women’s psychology can be closely tied to hormonal fluctuations during different phases of our lives. Conditions like premenstrual syndrome (PMS), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), or uneven periods can be linked to mental health issues. Anxiety, stress, and depression may even influence hormones related to ovulation and potentially impact your chances of conceiving.
What’s more, mental health conditions can re-emerge during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. Conditions such as depression, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety disorder, and bipolar disorder can potentially cause complications.
Even the medication that helps with mental health issues can be a challenge. Some of these drugs have been linked to reducing the probability of conceiving, while others don’t affect it at all. It’s a delicate balance because some are safe to continue using during breastfeeding, while others are not.
It’s also important to remember that any neglectful behaviors resulting from anxiety and depression can have future repercussions for your baby’s mental health. Research has shown that depressed pregnant women are more likely to have underweight babies.
Severe mental health conditions can sometimes lead to harmful behaviors such as alcohol consumption, smoking or substance abuse, which are detrimental to the health of the unborn child.
So, what are some common mental health issues that pregnant women face?
1. Depression – Constant feelings of sadness.
2. Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – Experiencing nightmares, intense distress, and-flashbacks of a past traumatic incident.
3. Panic disorder – Unanticipated attacks of fear or panic.
4. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) – Excessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.
5. Tokophobia – Extreme fear of childbirth.
6. Eating disorder – Unhealthy eating habits and variations in food intake.
Given the potentially severe impact of mental health conditions on pregnancy, it’s crucial to emphasize the importance of mental health support. A positive mental health environment benefits women trying to conceive, expecting mothers, and those nursing their newborns. So, how can you ensure good mental health during this important time?
There are two primary approaches you can take, depending on the severity of your condition and the existing mental health support you receive.
First, lifestyle changes and natural remedies can be an effective route. This might involve mindfulness practices like yoga, getting plenty of sleep, staying hydrated, maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and setting aside some time for yourself. Finding someone you trust to share your troubles with can also be an invaluable part of your support system.
The second approach involves medication and therapy. This could mean taking carefully screened medicines or attending sessions with a mental health professional to work through your issues. Group therapy can also be beneficial as you hear others’ experiences and gain encouragement and advice.
However, it’s also crucial to be aware of some common missteps. Avoid comparing yourself to other mothers, as each person’s pregnancy experience is unique. Don’t hesitate to share your feelings with healthcare professionals – they’re there to help. And remember, resorting to alcohol, cigarettes or other substances is a dangerous path that will only worsen your condition.
In conclusion, taking care of your mental health is crucial before, during, and after pregnancy. It can enhance your chances of conception, support a healthy pregnancy and optimize your ability to nurture your child. Always have a reliable person to talk to about your experiences.
If you’re expecting, planning to conceive, or are already raising a baby, and are struggling with managing your mental health, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Rachel Hudson is a California-based journalist and blogger and a mother of two. After suffering from depression during her second pregnancy, she’s dedicated herself to helping other women facing similar challenges. In her free time, Rachel enjoys cooking, singing for seniors in nursing homes, and reaching out to moms grappling with mental health concerns.
Categories: Pregnancy
Tags: After, During, Mental Health, Pregnancy.
