Prepartum Depression

Depression has no definite root cause and a number of reasons can trigger it. Postpartum depression is a commonly known form of depression and it has been subjected to much research by the researchers. However, the phenomenon of prepartum depression is relatively unknown and most women suffering from it are not even aware that there is such a thing as prepartum depression and may know eventually from the effects of a mental status examination. The hormonal changes in the body during pregnancy cause prepartum depression and it might adversely affect the mother and the child if it is not treated immediately. Since it has recently been discovered, therefore, the symptoms are still treated like pregnancy blues although they are a lot more serious in nature.

Cause of Prepartum Depression

During pregnancy, a woman goes through a number of changes in her body and as a reaction of these changes, the mood swings take place. These mood swings, often called pregnancy blues, are completely normal as long as they do not interfere with the routine of the expecting mother and do not harm the baby. However, prepartum depression or melancholia effects might harm the fetus that is in the early stages of development. There has been much discussion about prepartum depression and the researchers have concluded that it might harm the baby if it is prolonged.

According to the research about prepartum depression, the mother might face such problems if she has gone through a troubled childhood or any physical or mental abuse. It is likely that the symptoms of prepartum depression might be confused with the regular pregnancy blues. There is no stark distinction between the two as both of them include symptoms like nausea, crying spells and fatigue among numerous others.

Treatment Of Prepartum Depression

Most of the women who suffer from prepartum depression opt for psychological treatment once they discover the problem. Medications are not preferred although herbal supplements for prepartum depression are considered acceptable. The herbal supplements for prepartum depression might work as a placebo in some cases if the depression is mild. While the severe cases call for a more rigorous treatment. When deciding about prepartum depression medications, it is advisable to consult your doctor as the medications might cause complications in the pregnancy. It has been medically proved that certain high potency drugs are not suitable and this gave strength to the idea of using herbal supplements for prepartum depression.

Apart from herbal supplements, numerous other changes have to be incorporated in the routine to deal with prepartum depression. It includes eating a balanced diet and adopting a suitable exercise routine. Pregnancy is a joyful time but prepartum depression can make it tough to bear. The expecting mother herself might be unable to find the faults yet be miserable all the time. It is a clear indication of prepartum depression and must be dealt with on an immediate basis. It might affect the infant during pregnancy and result in complications like behavioral problems later on. Therefore, it is prudent to seek medical care from a qualified professional as soon as prepartum depression is diagnosed.