Emotions During Pregnancy

Most women experience mood swings and emotions during pregnancy that are often very different than anything they, or their partners and people close to them, have experienced in the past. There are several reasons for this, not the least of which is the fluctuation of hormones associated with pregnancy that can affect neurotransmitter levels in the brain. These fluctuations can cause a range of emotions during pregnancy, including depression and agitation. Women who find themselves irrationally upset or becoming irritated, annoyed or angry much more quickly than usual can at least find solace in the fact that mood swings are perfectly normal during pregnancy.

During pregnancy, it is not uncommon for a woman’s mood or demeanor to change abruptly and, in some cases, for no apparent reason. Knowing that there is the possibility for a wide range of emotions during pregnancy can help women better prepare for and manage their emotions, and can also help partners, family members and friends to understand and cope with what may seem like irrational behavior from their usually loving, happy wife, girlfriend, mom, sister or friend.

Aside from fluctuating hormones, varied emotions can also be caused by the fatigue, nausea, aches and pains that are commonly associated with pregnancy, as well as the typical stress and mix of emotions that naturally occur when a woman finds out she is expecting a baby. Even if the pregnancy was planned and expected, the reality of lifestyle changes and what it means to be a first time parent, or to add another child to your family, can sometimes be overwhelming. Worries that there might be something wrong with the baby or that parenting skills will be flawed are quite common among expectant mothers and can lead to an understandable and normal increase in emotions during pregnancy.

If you are feeling unusually emotional during pregnancy, managing stress, enlisting the support of those around you and taking care of yourself during pregnancy are important aspects of coping with the intense emotions and mood swings that affect many expectant mothers. Eating right, getting enough sleep, partaking in doctor-approved exercise and taking the time to do things you enjoy are essential to maintaining a healthy pregnancy and emotional balance while you are expecting. Many pregnant women find self-care practices, such as yoga and meditation to be effective stress management tools during pregnancy as well.

If you are inundated with overwhelming emotions during pregnancy, particularly depression or anxiety, it is important that you consult your healthcare provider to explore treatment options that can alleviate emotional distress and assist you in having a happy, enjoyable pregnancy.