Mood swings during pregnancy is common for childbearing women. Pregnancy is a significant milestone for women, accompanied with many physical and emotional changes, such as mood swings. These often occur during the first 6 to 10 weeks of pregnancy and leading up to birth. It is important to understand these adjustments and to talk through them with a professional to have a positive and healthy experience.
Causes of Mood Swings
Mood swings during pregnancy are caused by a variety of factors, including physical stress, tiredness, metabolism changes as well the hormones estrogen and progesterone. When pregnant women experience high hormone levels, this can affect the levels of neurotransmitters, the brain chemicals that control moods, causing frequent mood swings.
Treating Mood Swings
There are many at-home remedies pregnant women can try to help alleviate their mood swings. Examples include getting plenty of sleep, taking a break during the day to relax, getting regular physical activity, eating well, spending time with your partner, taking a nap and going for a walk. Other options, such as pregnancy yoga and massages, are helpful as well.
Mood Swings Leading to Depression
Persistent mood swings can lead to depression in expecting mothers. Depression in pregnant women is common; more than 11 million women are affected by depression yearly. Symptoms of depression include anxiety, irritability, changes in sleeping, changes in eating, inability to concentrate, and short-term memory loss. If you find yourself experiencing any of these symptoms, consult your healthcare provider.
Seeking Professional Assistance
For women experiencing persistent mood swings during pregnancy, professional help is available. If they persist for more than two weeks, consider consulting your healthcare provider for additional advice or a referral to a counselor.
Want to read more? Check out these other pregnancy guides.
