My SD Moms Whether this is your first pregnancy or your last, whether you had been trying for years or not trying at all, every woman experiences each pregnancy differently.
Pregnancy is a special time that should be enjoyed as much as possible. Let your practitioner know if you have had a previous history of depression or if you are currently experiencing negative feelings, anger, or a depressed state that has lasted longer than 2 to 3 weeks. Learn more about depression during pregnancy.
Call your doctor right away if you’re having any thoughts of hurting yourself or others. If you think you may act upon them, call 911 immediately.
This is a time when your emotions are close to the surface. Excitement, worry, happiness, and fear are all normal responses to the big life changes that go along with becoming a parent.
Hormonal and physical changes to your body can also add to these feelings and may cause you to:
- have mood swings — you’re happy one minute and crying the next
- be more sensitive and irritable
- feel more dependent and passive, thoughtful, or fearful
- experience changes in your sexual interest — you may be very interested in sex or not interested at all
Concerns about your body image, career, relationships, and the health of your baby are all normal feelings. Here are some tips to help you cope:
- Don’t go at it alone. Reach out to supportive family and friends to discuss your feelings or look for a support group in your area.
- Try to spend time with other couples who are expecting or have small children. Talking with others who have been there can provide you with valuable information about pregnancy, childbirth, and infant care. Plus, sharing similar experiences can help to relieve common worries.
- Take prenatal classes. They are a good way to meet other women or couples who have the same concerns and joys.
- Share your feelings with your partner. Pregnancy is a time to grow closer as you share in the creation of a new life. It’s an opportunity for you to develop as a couple as you move into your role as parents.
- Take time every day to relax, even if it’s only for 10 or 15 minutes.Learn ways to de-stress.
- Try to clear your mind of things over which you have no control, such as when your baby will arrive or if you’re having a boy or a girl.
- If you are coping with a pregnancy complication, this is a good time to reach out to others for support and make sure you are working closely with your doctor to manage your condition.
- For peace of mind, do a kick test.
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