During pregnancy, while you’re nurturing another life inside you, you’ll undergo several changes – from feeling puckish, tired, swollen, etc. Passing through all the stages of pregnancy when you finally reach the last stage and give birth to your newborn, thinking of the developing baby inside you, you may feel a little worried and anxious. 

Mood disorders or depression during pregnancy and after cannot denied. Studies have shown that 7% to 9% of pregnancies are depressed. Postpartum depression impacts up to 15% of new moms. 

Above all, there is no single reason behind perinatal depression. Physical, genetic, emotional as well as hormonal changes are playing some of the major roles. 

What are the signs of Perinatal Depression?

Feeling depressed after your pregnancy means as a new mom you go through a lot of emotional roller-coaster and upheaval. There are chances of you feeling: 

• sad
• losing interest
• loss of appetite
• change of appetite
• sleeping trouble
• Feeling guilty (feeling like you’re a bad mom)
• Crying without any reason
• Scared of harming the baby

If your depression is left untreated, there are chances of it becoming postpartum psychosis (a rare condition during postpartum which occurs during the first few weeks after the baby’s delivery). In this condition, you will undergo terrible behavioural changes. Sometimes this may not positively impact you or your newborn baby.  

What are the ways to treat Perinatal Depression? 

Since this feeling is not that good, you may feel slightly embarrassed to talk about it. In that case, you need to consult the healthcare to get yourself treated. It’s perfectly “ok” to feel overwhelmed and there is nothing to worry about. 

Although medication can help in dealing with this condition, however, there are natural ways to support the condition: 

• Pay attention to taking rest 
• Find someone to talk to – a friend, family member or anybody who listen to you. Additionally, you can join an online support group. 
• Eat well 
• Read or enjoy a hobby 
• Get support with your household chores 

Early detection is prevention. There is nothing to shy away from while you’re expressing your emotions.