Introduction

Depression during pregnancy, or antepartum depression, is a mood disorder just like clinical depression. During pregnancy, hormonal changes can affect brain chemicals, which are directly related to depression and together along with other life situations, can increase the likelihood of depression during pregnancy.

Overview and facts

Although pregnancy has long been viewed as a period of wellbeing that protected women against psychiatric diseases, approximately 10-20% of women will struggle with symptoms of depression during their pregnancy.

Symptoms

Women with depression usually experience some of the following symptoms for 2 weeks or more:

• Persistent sadness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Sleeping too little or too much
• Loss of interest in activities they usually enjoy
• Recurring thoughts of death, suicide, or hopelessness
• Anxiety
• Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
• Change in eating habits

Causes and risk factors

There are several causes and risk factors for depression during pregnancy such as:

• Having a history of depression or PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, a severe type of premenstrual syndrome or PMS).
• Age at time of pregnancy – the younger you are, the higher the risk.
• Living alone.
• Limited social support.
• Children – the more you have, the more likely you are to be depressed during a subsequent pregnancy.
• Marital conflict.
• Ambivalence about the pregnancy.

Tests and diagnosis

To effectively diagnose and treat depression during pregnancy, the doctor must hear about specific symptoms of depression. While a physical examination will reveal a pregnant lady’s overall state of health, by talking with her, a doctor can learn about other things that are relevant to making a depression diagnosis. A doctor can rule out other conditions that may cause depression with a physical examination, personal interview, and lab tests. The doctor will also conduct a complete diagnostic evaluation, discussing any family history of depression or other mental illness.

Treatment

The main treatments for depression during pregnancy are:

• Psychotherapy which involves working with a therapist to reduce symptoms.
• Medication such as antidepressants (prescribed by a doctor).
• Combination of psychotherapy and medication

Sources and links

• www.webmd.com

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