How to treat depression in pregnancy

It's normal to feel down from time to time.

Trying calming breathing exercises if you feel overwhelmed.

Trying calming breathing exercises if you feel overwhelmed.

Increasing physical activity levels during pregnancy if you can, as it can improve your mood and help you sleep.

Talking about your feelings to a friend, family member, doctor or midwife.

Antidepressant medications can be safely utilized in the treatment of depression in pregnant women.

Prenatal depression is depression during pregnancy.

But if you're depressed, you experience feelings of sadness or hopelessness that last for weeks or even months. Pregnancy depression can impact your ability to care for yourself and your baby.

Feeling this way is hard any time, but it can be especially difficult to cope when you're pregnant.

There's an expectation that pregnancy is supposed to be a joyful time, so it can be hard to admit it if that's not the way you're feeling.

Know that depression is an illness, not a choice.

And it's surprisingly common: About 1 in 10 women experience depression during pregnancy.

Even if you're diagnosed with severe clinical depression, there are many effective treatments.

The signs of depression can seem like the normal ups and downs of pregnancy.

The earlier you're able to start treatment, the more effective it will be. So don't hesitate to ask for help. Your emotional health is just as important as your physical health.

What causes depression during pregnancy?

While experts don't full

how to treat depression during pregnancy

how to help depression during pregnancy