Top 5 Symptoms of Depression During Pregnancy

Depression during pregnancy, also referred to as antepartum depression, is a serious mental condition that affects the entire body, mood and thought process. It affects between 10 and 20 percent of pregnant women, according to the American Pregnancy Association. If left undiagnosed, it can have serious consequences.

Signifiance

• Women who suffer from antepartum depression and do not receive proper treatment are less likely to receive prenatal care, maintain good nutrition and receive adequate rest. This can lead to premature delivery, low birth-weight babies and developmental problems.

Identification

• The five most common symptoms of depression during pregnancy are: loss of sleep or sleeping too much, change in eating habits, depressed feelings lasting two weeks or more, loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities and thoughts of death or suicide.

Considerations

• Antepartum depression is often undiagnosed or misdiagnosed as a hormonal imbalance since depression symptoms, in particular changes in appetite, changes in sleep patterns and loss of energy can be similar to symptoms of pregnancy.

Prevention/Solution

• Treatment options for antepartum depression include: medication, support groups, light therapy and private psychotherapy. In addition alternative treatment options exist, such as St. John's wort and acupuncture.

Warning

• Women who are suffering from any of the aforementioned symptoms should not attempt any treatment before seeking advice from a health care professional to determine the safest and most effective treatment option for their individual circumstance.