Pregnancy is a beautiful stage for every woman who is fortunate enough to experience it. It is during this period that a tiny human being is being formed and nurtured with love and care by the mother.

However, as much as pregnancy can be a wonderful experience, it can also trigger various mental health issues, including prenatal depression.

Prenatal depression is a severe form of depression that affects expectant mothers. According to experts, prenatal depression can occur during pregnancy and up to one year postpartum.

Though prenatal depression is common, it is often overlooked and hardly talked about. In this article, we seek to understand prenatal depression with insights from Obstetrician-Gynecologist Menelaos Lygos.

What is Prenatal Depression?

Prenatal depression is a mood disorder that affects women during pregnancy and into the postpartum period. It is a severe form of depression that can lead to emotional and physical distress.

Prenatal depression can affect up to 10% of expectant mothers, yet most cases remain undiagnosed.

According to Dr. Menelaos Lygos, prenatal depression can manifest itself in various ways, ranging from mild to severe symptoms. The symptoms may include:.

Feeling overwhelmed or anxious
Restlessness and decreased energy level
Changes in sleeping and eating habits
Feeling sad, hopeless, or guilty
Lack of interest in activities you once enjoyed
Changes in sex drive
Difficulty in concentration or making decisions

The occurrence of these symptoms during pregnancy should not be ignored and requires immediate attention.

Causes of Prenatal Depression

Various factors can cause prenatal depression. These risk factors include:.

A history of depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder
Past pregnancy loss
Marital discord or lack of support from the partner or family members
Financial instability
Health complications during pregnancy
Unplanned or unwanted pregnancy

According to Dr. Menelaos Lygos, hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy are also a significant contributing factor to prenatal depression. The hormonal shifts can cause chemical imbalances in the brain, leading to depression.

Prenatal depression can have severe consequences for both the mother and the unborn child. It can lead to premature delivery, low birth weight, and developmental issues in the child.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Prenatal Depression

Diagnosing prenatal depression can be challenging because it is often mistaken for typical pregnancy mood swings.

However, it is crucial to seek medical attention from an experienced obstetrician-gynecologist if you suspect you have prenatal depression.

Dr. Menelaos Lygos recommends early diagnosis and treatment of prenatal depression. This can help to prevent the condition from worsening and reduce the risk of complications.

Diagnosis usually involves a mental health screening questionnaire and a physical examination by a medical professional.

If the diagnosis is positive, treatment options may include counseling or talk therapy, medication, or a combination of both. The treatment plan will depend on the severity of the depression and the preference of the patient.

Dr. Menelaos Lygos also recommends lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, good nutrition, and rest to help manage prenatal depression.

Additionally, having a strong support system from family, friends, or support groups can make a significant difference in managing depression.

Preventing Prenatal Depression

While it may be hard to prevent prenatal depression entirely, expecting mothers can take steps to reduce their risk of developing the condition. According to Dr. Menelaos Lygos, some of the preventive measures include:.

Seeking prenatal care early – Regular prenatal check-ups can help detect any underlying health conditions or risk factors before they escalate
Seeking help for mental health issues – Expectant mothers should seek help if they experience depression or anxiety-related symptoms
Building a support network – It is essential to have a strong support system from family, friends, or support groups to reduce the chances of being overwhelmed or isolated
Managing stress levels – Expectant mothers can manage stress by practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle – Eating a well-balanced diet, getting sufficient sleep, and regular exercise can reduce the risk of prenatal depression

Conclusion

Prenatal depression is a severe mental health condition that affects expectant mothers and can have severe consequences for the mother and child. It is often underdiagnosed and undertreated, leading to increased risk of complications.

Proper diagnosis and treatment, early intervention, and having a strong support system can help manage prenatal depression and reduce the risk of complications.

It is essential to seek help if you experience any symptoms of depression during pregnancy. Consult an experienced obstetrician-gynecologist who can help diagnose and provide adequate treatment.

Prenatal depression can be managed, and with appropriate care and attention, every mother can have a healthy pregnancy and birth.