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More common than postnatal depression, antenatal depression strikes one in five pregnant women locally. We tell you the signs to look out for and what types of antenatal depression treatment work best.
Pregnancy and childbirth are a special time in the life of most women. But sometimes, instead of being excited, joyful and in the pink of health, many women find themselves dealing with antenatal depression.
Related: Healthy Start For Your Pregnancy
Research has suggested that depression during pregnancy may be even more common than postnatal depression. Locally, about one in five pregnant women is likely to show serious antenatal depression symptoms associated with impairment of functioning, and about one in 10 will have clinical depression, which requires focused medical attention.
We also now understand that antenatal depression often marks the onset of depressive illness in women and increases the risk of postnatal depression.
Often, an interplay of various factors may lead to the onset of depression during pregnancy. Pregnancy is a time of significant psychological adjustment as a mother adapts to physical changes and emotionally prepares to nurture a new life.
For new mothers carrying their first baby, the adjustment may be more challenging, especially:
- If the pregnancy was unwanted or unplanned
- If they have had difficult relationships with their own mother — any unresolved emotional conflicts may be awakened
- If they are working as it may be challenging to balance career with motherhood, particularly if colleagues are not understanding or supportive
- For teenage or very young mothers
Other factors that may contribute to antenatal depression include:
- Having a complicated pregnancy
- Foetal abnormalities
- Past history of depression
The same factors that may contribute to depression at any other time in a woman’s life may also lead to signs of antenatal depression, including:
- Marital difficulties
- Interpersonal problems
- Financial and occupational problems
- Lack of social support
- Loss of a loved one
- Substance abuse and dependency
Lastly, if this is a precious pregnancy or if there has been difficulty conceiving or a history of miscarriage, there may also be an increased risk of depression.
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