It is estimated that up to 20% of women suffer from a mood or anxiety disorder while pregnant.

And did you know, according to the AAPP, 400,000 infants are born to depressed mothers every year?  It’s a shocking statistic pointing to the fact that more pregnant women are depressed than is reported.

Symptoms may range and include any of the following:

• Hopelessness and overwhelm
• Lack of interest in things you used to enjoy
• Feeling guilt or shame about your pregnancy
• Excessive worrying or anxiety about birth or parenting
• Trouble concentrating, making decisions or sleeping

And while some amount of worry, ambivalence, and mood change are expected during pregnancy, persistent struggles that impact everyday functioning are not normal.

Depression and anxiety during pregnancy have been linked to a variety of issues including poor prenatal care, birth complications, low infant birth weight, and preterm labor. And, it is a major risk factor for postpartum depression.

That’s why it’s important to talk to your provider to find the appropriate treatment option early on, weighing the pros and cons of medication. Your health matters!

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