Pregnancy and Mental Health: Can Hormonal Changes Lead Pregnant Women to Develop Mental Health Problems?

Bearing a child is one of the best blessings God can give to a family simply because not all women can conceive. That's why pregnancy is an experience filled with joy and excitement, but sometimes it is not always the case.

When the hormonal changes in the mother's body start to kick in, emotional problems also start to manifest. That is why most pregnant women suffer anxiety, post-birth psychosis or depression during the nine months of pregnancy or even after a year of child's birth.

"This hormonal bath, which is so beneficial to the baby, is sometimes very hard for you to take," says Lucy Puryear, MD, the Baylor Psychiatry Clinic's Director. She also added that this phase is what makes pregnant women prone to morning sickness, tearfulness and moodiness, as posted by Parents.

The effects of this hormonal change can be bearable to some women, but unfortunately, to others it is not. Those who have mental health conditions may experience double emotional pain and stress that could possibly worsen their mental health situation, as reported by The Guardian.

Women alone are not just those that are prone to carry the burden of emotional problems that tags along with pregnancy. The UK Medical Research Council and University College London conducted a research, which showed 21% of fathers also experience this phase.

Aside from emotional instability, pregnant women also experience pregnancy problems like swelling, backaches, bowel and bladder problems, changes of hair and skin, appearance of varicose veins, cramps, fatigue, indigestion and headaches, according to Pregnancy, Birth and Baby. So to ease these discomforts, experts say, engage to a much healthier lifestyle.

By maintaining a much healthier lifestyle, which would mean eating fresh fruits and vegetables, doing daily light exercises and having enough rest and sleep, one can have a more stable mental perspective when pregnant. These tips are not just good for the baby but also is best in easing an expectant mother's emotional situation.