These days there are so many life events thatcan adversely affect our mental health. Everything from a pandemic to political division can leave us feeling anxious. Even pregnancy has the potential to cause depression in some women.

 

We want you to know that you are not alone if you are pregnant and feeling emotionally uneasy. Take a closer look at the physical and mental symptoms of pregnancy.

Physical Symptoms of Pregnancy

Usually, the first sign of pregnancy is a missed period. However, you can have a change in your menstrual cycle for many reasons, such as stress, a hormonal imbalance, certain medications, or excessive exercise.

 

Other early physical symptoms of pregnancy include the following:

 

●    Tender, swollen breasts

●    Nausea with or without vomiting

●    Increased urination

●    Fatigue

●    Bloating

●    Light Spotting

 

If you’re experiencing any of the above, we encourage you to call or text us at True Choice Medical Clinics for a no-cost pregnancy test. Even if you’ve taken a home pregnancy test, w eencourage you to get a second opinion with one of our lab-quality tests.

Emotional Symptoms of Pregnancy

When you are pregnant, pregnancy hormones flood your body. These hormones can make you feel unusually emotional and weepy. According to the Mayo Clinic, mood swings are also common.

 

The American Heart Association reports “major depressive episodes during pregnancy and the year after birth are common, affecting up to 1 in 5 U.S.women.” They say that over half of the cases go undiagnosed, and 85% are untreated.

 

Talking with your healthcare provider about your emotions is vital, especially if you feel depressed. About 7% of pregnant women experience depression during pregnancy.

 

Risk Factors for Depression during Pregnancy are:

●    Anxiety

●    Life stress

●    History of depression

●    Poor social support

●    Unintended pregnancy

●    Intimate partner violence

Symptoms of Depression During Pregnancy Include the Following:

●     Excessive anxiety about your baby

●     Low self-esteem

●     The inability to experience pleasure from activities usually found enjoyable

●     Poor response to reassurance

●     Poor adherence to prenatal care

●     Smoking, drinking alcohol, or using illicit drugs

●     Poor weight gain

●     Thoughts of suicide

 

If you experience any of these risk factors or believe that you have symptoms of depression, you must speak with a trusted mental health professional as soon as possible. Your mental health matters and you deserve the help you need.

Talk With Us Too

Your health and wellness are our top priority. We provide Whole Body Health Education that empowers you to learn and understand your body and hormonal health. You can meet with an educator who provides evidence-based education and answers your questions.

 

Contact True Choice Medical Clinics for moreinformation and to set up an appointment. We are here for youevery step of the way.