Depression during Pregnancy

Pregnancy unfolds so many mysteries in a woman's life. Pregnancy renovates their whole world into something novel and exhilarating. But this is not the case for all women, if at one hand they experience complete joy for their unborn then at the other hand they may feel a little depressed owing to the physical, emotional and mental changes taking place in them.

Also, in today's fast-paced world where several women are more career-oriented that they being family-oriented, conceiving a child can actually be out of family pressure. The women are unwilling to conceive while they are the top of their careers which also leads them into depression. While they are in a habit to stay busy throughout the day, pregnancy calls them to rest and even sit idle. This is why a number of women find it difficult to conceive and feel it be depressing.

During pregnancy, most of the changes happen due to hormones. While our body is undergoing changes, they also affect one's reactions and may even result in depression. Depression is a mood disorder that deteriorates ones thought process, the way they feel and act and it often impedes the daily routine of the expectant mother.

The mental health of the mother also adversely affects the physical health of the mother why is why it is imperative that the mother is emotionally sound to ensure her proper health and wellbeing.

How Depression disturbs Gestation Period:

♦ Increases Risk of Miscarriage: Depression leaves a huge impact on the health of the mother and the baby and can even lead to miscarriage.

♦Affects the Growth of Foetus: Depression can hamper the proper growth of the foetus. It can also lead to abnormalities and deformities in the baby which necessitates that the mother is happy and lively.

♦Increase Chances of Premature Deliveries and Low Birth Weight: Depression to the mother can be very harmful and can result in premature deliveries too. A baby can even have a lower weight than normal at the time of birth.

If it's not treated on time, depression can develop into a postpartum depression that may last for months or years affecting the health as well as the relationship between the mother and the baby.

Natural Remedy for Depression:

1. Proper and Nutritious Diet: It is very important for the prospective mother to have a proper diet as the baby is also completely dependent on the mother for nutrition.

2. Exercise: Exercises like yoga and brisk walking help in reducing depression. A regular exercise also helps in maintaining proper weight and ensures proper movement of the bowel.

3. Stay Busy: It is always advised for the mothers to stay busy and involve themselves in activities that keep them happy. Activities like reading, shopping and listening to music are some of the things that can keep the mothers happy.

4. Acupuncture: Acupuncture is another way that can keep the mother's depression at bay.

It is important for an expectant mother to overcome issues like depression so that she can enjoy her pregnancy rather than stressing about it. Maternal depression can result in the child having trouble in cooperating with their mother.