Prenatal depression is not as widely discussed as its counterpart postnatal depression. It affects between 15 to 23% of the women, when they hear the news of their pregnancy. Although pregnancy is supposed to be a happy period some mothers to be are sad, confused and angry. Mood disorders occur because of a change in the brain chemistry. During pregnancy hormonal changes seen with postnatal depression symptoms occur and mood disorders set in. There are no definite causes of prenatal depression. Possible signs and triggers can be used to determine if a woman is going through prenatal depression. Some of the signs that point out towards prenatal depression are:- • State of persistent sadness • Difficulty in sleep and concentration, • Loss of interest in pleasurable activities • Thoughts of helplessness, suicide, guilt • Anxiety • Changes in eating habits like over eating or under eating. Prenatal Depression Triggers There are some possible triggers which can be attributed as causes of prenatal depression. For example, relationship issues between couples often cause depression and this can enhance during pregnancy. A family history of depression or a prenatal depression during a previous pregnancy can be another cause. If the pregnancy is complicated or if there is a history of family trauma and financial constraints too can contribute to depression. Prenatal Depression Information Prenatal depression needs to be treated because it can harm the baby and the mother. Women if left untreated may complicate her pregnancy by drinking, smoking or eating less which ...
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