Why Pregnancy Affects Mood
It is natural to have frequent mood swings in pregnancy. This happens due to the hormonal changes that go through the female body and which affect the neurotransmitters that manage mood. In this article, we will talk about why pregnancy affects mood.
All mothers respond differently to these mood swings. For example, there are mothers-to-be who experience exaggerated emotions – they can go from being totally euphoric to being in a bad mood within minutes. Other mothers feel rather depressed or anxious.
However, in most cases, mood swings begin between weeks 6 and 10 of pregnancy and subside towards the second trimester, only to reappear as the end of the gestation phase approaches. This is why pregnancy affects mood.
Why pregnancy affects mood
Pregnancy can be a very stressful time. Even if a mother desires her baby with all her soul and is very happy and excited, it is normal for there to be times when anxiety invades her.
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Although pregnancy is often planned, a mother may feel insecure about her future. The pressure starts before the baby is born. Questions crowd: Am I reading the right books? Did I buy everything I need for the baby’s arrival? Will I be able to positively stimulate the development of the child and help him build his self-esteem?
One of the biggest concerns is whether the baby will be born healthy and whether you will be a good mother. You may worry about your relationship with your partner and other children, wondering if you will be able to give everyone the attention they need.
Changes in the body in pregnancy and mood
At the same time, your body changes and expands to accommodate gestation. You may start to feel unattractive or very fat, or you may worry about not being able to return to your normal weight after having the baby.
Physical symptoms of pregnancy, such as heartburn, fatigue, and frequent urination can be very annoying, making you feel like you can’t control your body. This whole series of factors is enough for your emotions to undergo constant ups and downs.
First, try to remember that this emotional whirlwind is completely normal in your situation. Taking a conscious effort to take care of yourself can help calm the turbulence of those busy months.
Getting proper rest and resisting the temptation to do the same things you did before the baby arrived is key. You may feel the urge to redecorate the house, tidy up the closets, but it’s not that essential. There is nothing more important than taking care of yourself, because by doing so you will also take care of your baby.
Strengthening the bond with your partner can be helpful in managing emotions. Sharing feelings with your husband and reiterating that you love him will greatly help strengthen the relationship between the two. Make sure you spend enough time with him or her and, if you can, take a little trip together.
Strengthening the connection with your partner is very important to support each other when the baby arrives. If you are a single mom, get close to your friends and family or join a single mom support group. This way you won’t feel alone, a vital feeling for you and your baby.
Tips to make sure pregnancy doesn’t affect your mood too much
Do the things that make you feel good
Maybe you feel like doing something special with your partner. Or maybe you want to take some time just for yourself: take a walk, get a prenatal massage or go to the movies with a friend.
Talk about your emotions
Sharing your worries with trusted friends who understand you and expressing your fears will help you avert them and see the solution.
Keep all channels of communication open with your partner and make sure there is mutual understanding. In addition to talking about your feelings, you will also need to be able to listen to his.
Try to control stress
Instead of allowing the frustration to build up, look for ways to reduce it. Get enough sleep, eat right, exercise and have fun.
Identify sources of stress and make necessary changes
If you are still feeling anxious and stressed, try a prenatal yoga class, meditation or other relaxation techniques and don’t rule out the option of consulting a psychotherapist.
