It is well known that during pregnancy in a woman's well-being, there are many different changes. The psychoemotional sphere is no exception: new sensations, a sense of responsibility and anxiety for the baby's health cannot but affect the mood, reactions and behavior of the expectant mother. Mood changes are highly individual and temporary; with the right attitude to this issue, the pregnant woman herself and her loved ones, emotional restructuring can go completely painlessly and imperceptibly.
Unfortunately, there are many persistent myths about the mood and behavior of a pregnant woman that create incorrect patterns of behavior in future parents. Sometimes such incorrect stereotypes bring expectant mothers and their loved ones much more trouble than real changes in the emotional sphere.
Pregnancy mood: I don’t want to, I won’t
For some reason, it is generally accepted that the expectant mother is constantly in a state of "out of the fire and into the fire": now she cries, now she laughs, now she takes offense, now she gets angry for no reason. This behavior is indeed not uncommon for expectant mothers; however, it is erroneous to consider it the norm and an indispensable attribute of pregnancy.
The psychoemotional sphere is the most subtle and individual area of human physiology, therefore, there can be no talk of any routine changes that are the same for all pregnant women. Of course, the emotional background of the expectant mother changes relative to the usual rhythm; however, the scale and nature of these changes is different for each woman.
At the beginning of pregnancy, when hormonal changes take place, mood can really "jump" along with hormones. Normally, such emotional instability is felt within 1–2 weeks and is noticeable only to the pregnant woman herself and to the closest family members. Often during this period, the main character does not even know about her “interesting position”. However, even during this period, mood swings do not occur in all expectant mothers. Many women note a stable change in the emotional background, for example, a constantly elevated mood (euphoria) or a predominance of feelings of depression - a depressive state.
The stability of emotional changes testifies to the establishment of a "pregnancy dominant" in the expectant mother. A psychological dominant is an emotional state that prevails over all other experiences of a person at a certain stage of his life.
In the emotional state of the expectant mother, not even one, but several dominants are distinguished; each of them usually corresponds to a certain stage of pregnancy. In this case, we are no longer talking about swings, that is, constant mood transitions from one extreme to another within a short time, as is usually attributed to pregnant women. And finally, about 30% of women do not notice any changes in the emotional sphere - neither at the beginning of pregnancy, nor at further stages of its development.
The situation when a woman during the entire period of pregnancy illustrates with her behavior the well-known lines of the classic "either she will scream like a beast, then she will cry like a child" indicates the need to consult a perinatal psychologist; this condition is not normal and may indicate more serious deviations in the well-being of the expectant mother. Unfortunately, there are often cases when such a fickle mood and behavior of a woman is simply due to the influence of a psychological template: "I am pregnant, and I am supposed to express my feelings violently!"
Pregnant Mood: Whims - classics of the genre
In fact, this is not the case; the opinion that the expectant mother is "supposed" to be capricious is not true and rather harmful: the influence of this myth significantly complicates the life of the pregnant woman and her loved ones. The classic whims of "pregnant folklore" include the sudden irresistible desires of the expectant mother that require immediate fulfillment, for example, the demand to buy oranges at two in the morning. Naturally, non-fulfillment of a whim is followed by resentment, tears and accusations of loved ones in the lack of sensitivity towards a lady in an "interesting position."
The widespread misconception about “a pregnant woman should want something like that” makes a huge number of women artificially invent special desires for themselves, constantly puzzling their relatives with them and being in an offended-irritated state, since often whims turn out to be difficult to fulfill and do not always delight others. To the question: “Who really wanted something during pregnancy - was drawn to salty, wanted to listen only to classical music, etc.?”, Asked on a thematic forum on the Internet, only 13% of respondents answered positively.
On the other hand, there is nothing wrong with the desire of a pregnant woman to give herself a little joy. In the end, it is useful for the expectant mother to experience positive emotions, because the hormones of joy released at the moment of pleasure accelerate the metabolism and have a positive effect on the development of the baby. So it is possible to indulge in small whims from time to time - of course, if it does not turn into an obsession, does not terrorize household members and does not poison the existence of the "culprit" herself.
Fear of childbirth
This is a very persistent myth about the emotional state of the expectant mother. It is believed that during the period of waiting for the baby, any pregnant woman should experience various phobias - fear for the course of pregnancy, for the development of the fetus, for her own health and the future health of the baby, and finally, fear of childbirth.
Unfortunately, many believe that fear is a normal state of a pregnant woman, a completely logical reaction of a woman's psyche to a "responsible" position and, therefore, no special actions are required from others to deal with "pregnant" fears. This is an erroneous opinion: a feeling of fear cannot be the norm in any condition, especially during pregnancy. Fear is destructive in nature: it suppresses the normal functioning of the nervous system, paralyzes the will, and leads to the development of emotional stress and depression. The feeling of fear is accompanied by the release of adrenaline in the body of the expectant mother - a biologically active substance that negatively affects the work of the heart, blood circulation and the state of the nervous system.
Adrenaline, circulating in the blood of a person experiencing fear, causes a rapid heartbeat - tachycardia, an increase in blood pressure - hypertension, increases the excitability of the cerebral cortex. These changes in well-being are extremely undesirable for the expectant mother, since the increase in vascular tone and the excitability of the nervous system directly leads to the development of uterine hypertonicity - the main factor in the threat of termination of pregnancy and premature onset of labor.
With high blood pressure, placental blood flow suffers and, therefore, the transport of nutrients and oxygen to the fetus is impaired. Against the background of a panic state, the risk of such dangerous complications of pregnancy as gestosis is significantly increased - a toxic disruption of the kidneys in late pregnancy, which is manifested by high pressure, an increase in edema and protein in the urine; acute placental insufficiency - impaired blood flow in the placenta; premature placental abruption. Obviously, it is impossible to consider a condition that provokes such formidable complications as the norm.
Of course, expectant mothers tend to worry about the course and outcome of pregnancy. All women at various stages of their "interesting situation" experience anxiety about their health, self-doubt, worried about the baby. Of course, all expectant mothers are worried about the upcoming birth and sometimes even afraid of them. It is important that this natural anxiety, which occurs at times, does not turn into constant uncontrollable stress caused by a panicky feeling of fear.
The main reason for any panic is fear of the unknown, the lack of timely and adequately provided information on a topic that has become a source of excitement. Therefore, the best way to deal with fears is to find answers to troubling questions; magazines, books and courses for parents-to-be are ideal sources of such information.
Mood during pregnancy
A characteristic feature of the emotional background of pregnancy is a woman's loss of the ability to control her emotions. The pregnant woman herself suffers from such changes no less than those around her, complaining that she literally “does not keep up” with her emotional reactions, which sometimes become too harsh. Similar behavior is typical for some women during premenstrual syndrome (PMS); the difference is that PMS lasts several days at most, and emotional lability can manifest itself during the first trimester of pregnancy.
As before menstruation, in early pregnancy, irritability occurs as a result of powerful hormonal changes. The usual hormonal background of a woman, mainly consisting of the female sex hormones estrogens, begins to decrease from the moment of fertilization, giving way to the "pregnancy hormone" progesterone. At first, the ratio of estrogen and progesterone in the blood of a pregnant woman changes every day; it is these changes “at the chemical level” that lead to instability of mood and sharp emotional reactions of the expectant mother.
Later, when a constant hormonal background of pregnancy is established and the balance of hormones in the body is restored, mood swings should bother the expectant mother less. However, even in the early stages of pregnancy, irritability cannot be considered the norm of the expectant mother's condition - rather, it is a common pathological reaction that certainly requires correction. Getting irritated and nervous for a pregnant woman is just as harmful as worrying: such negative emotions, like fear, lead to an increase in adrenaline in the blood, the negative effect of which was mentioned above.
The best way to stabilize the emotional background of the expectant mother is to switch her attention to events or activities related to receiving positive emotions. During laughter, joy and pleasure, the blood of the expectant mother is dominated by "hormones of happiness" - endorphins. These substances control the metabolic rate, blood oxygen saturation, as well as the supply of proteins, fats, carbohydrates to the fetus and everything that is necessary for its full development. So the expectant mother, who is in a good mood during pregnancy, has more chances of having a healthy baby than women who are constantly nervous, irritated and crying during pregnancy.
In order to cope with irritability, you must first get rid of the physiological sources of discomfort. These include fatigue, vitamin deficiency, sleep disturbance, insufficient oxygen supply to the body of the expectant mother. In the fight against irritability, daily walks in the fresh air, water treatments with sea salt, a visit to the pool, yoga and Pilates classes are great help. With an unmotivated change in the emotional background, it is very important to normalize the night's sleep.
To get enough sleep at night, it is recommended to walk in the fresh air for at least half an hour before going to bed, ventilate the bedroom for 15 minutes, and take a warm bath. You can drink an infusion of motherwort at night, a soothing collection for pregnant women, or just a glass of warm milk with honey. If it is not possible to restore sleep and a stable mood with non-drug methods, it is worth consulting with a doctor about sedative therapy: depletion of the nervous system associated with sleep disturbance affects not only the irritability of the expectant mother, but also an increase in blood pressure and uterine tone, and this can lead to serious complications of pregnancy.
The whims of a pregnant woman: I can do anything
A pregnant woman can count on the special attitude of others; some expectant mothers begin to take advantage of their "interesting position" and manipulate loved ones with the help of scandals, offenses and whims. Unfortunately, this situation is not uncommon - many representatives of the fairer sex consider it shameful to use all the advantages of their special position to motivate care and attention from relatives. The desire to manipulate loved ones has nothing to do with the notorious instability of mood - it is caused not by a lack of the ability to control emotions, but by a conscious impact on others by imitating violent feelings.
It also happens that the expectant mother simply ceases to control her emotions and behavior, believing that during this period everything is forgiven for her. In this case, of course, we are not talking about an attempt to deliberately manipulate others; however, this position of "permissiveness" is also unacceptable. Within reasonable limits, control over emotions is nevertheless necessary: the tone of the uterus and placental blood flow, which ensures respiration and nutrition of the fetus, depend on the status of the nervous system. In addition, the eccentric behavior of the expectant mother can do her a disservice: loved ones, tired of constant scandals, will soon stop responding to constant mood swings, tears and irritability. As a result, instead of the special attitude that the "capricious" pregnant woman counted on, the family may experience a cooling of relations, resentment and quarrels will begin - and this is already a reason for real depression.
Waiting for a baby is a joyful time in the life of every woman. At first glance, it should only evoke pleasant emotions, but this, unfortunately, is not always the case. Most pregnant women are familiar with the state when tears suddenly appear in their eyes, or, conversely, at the most inopportune moment they suddenly want to laugh without any reason. During pregnancy, you may experience unusual sensitivity and vulnerability, tearfulness and increased sensitivity. Frequent mood swings, increased emotionality, irritability are symptoms with which future parents turn to psychologists for help. Let's look at the reasons for the changes in the mood of a pregnant woman.
Psychological preparation for pregnancy
First of all, you should pay attention to your psychological state before pregnancy. Let's explain why: the central nervous system acts on the endocrine system, which is responsible for the production of hormones necessary for pregnancy and bearing a child. Most modern women lead a very active lifestyle before pregnancy, work a lot and for a long time, spend a lot of time at the computer, have little rest, and often do not get enough sleep. All this leads to great stress on the nervous system, which, in turn, can lead to hormonal and psychological problems.
Doctors believe that a woman who is going to become a mother, at least 3-6 months before pregnancy, needs to minimize the psychological stress on her body. It is necessary to devote more time to proper rest, be sure to get enough sleep (at least 8 hours a day). In addition to all this, it is impossible to create a stressful situation for the body (actively lose weight, abruptly start intensive sports, etc.).
Mood changes during pregnancy
Continuous mood swings during pregnancy are often associated with a variety of hormonal changes in a pregnant woman. This is most often felt in the first months of pregnancy. After all, your body needs to adapt to change. A woman may feel increased fatigue, drowsiness, and irritability. Those who are "not spared" by toxicosis are especially susceptible to these conditions. Sudden bouts of nausea, dizziness, fatigue, physical ailments do not add to a good mood. There is a feeling of one's own helplessness, irritability, anxiety, a feeling of misunderstanding on the part of others.
It is important to understand that such a state is natural. Of course, this will not make it easier, but you will understand that you are not alone - all pregnant women are subject to "emotional storms."
In the first months of pregnancy, a woman undergoes not only physiological, but also psychological changes: gradually she becomes accustomed to the role of a mother. At this moment, a woman may feel that those around her do not understand her, that they do not pay enough attention to her new state.
Svetlana says:
At the beginning of pregnancy, it seemed to me that my husband was not at all interested in my condition and did not understand how lonely I was now. I wanted to cry from resentment, then scream at the whole house. My husband did not understand what was happening to me, and I did not understand how to cope with it ...
The period of pregnancy can give a new light in family relationships, or, on the contrary, give rise to a complete misunderstanding. It is at this moment that it is more important than ever for a woman to receive support from a loved one. But you should understand that it is more difficult for a man to understand your condition at the moment. As a rule, he has no idea how the baby is developing, and about the changes taking place inside your body. Do not be upset and do not blame him for insensitivity, give time to realize yourself as a "pregnant dad". Educate him unobtrusively. Talk to him about your changes (both physical and mental). Another possible cause of the experience is related to the woman herself.
Anna says:
This was my first pregnancy. The child was very welcome. But during the first months I was not letting go of the thought: “How will my life develop in the future? What will happen to my career, which has just begun to take shape? Will I be a good mother to my baby?
Questions like these can cause feelings of irritation, insecurity, and fatigue. It takes time to realize and accept your new state. In the middle of pregnancy, emotional excitability is much less common than in the first trimester. Minor physical ailments have passed, toxicosis has receded, it's time to enjoy your new sensations. It is at this time that most pregnant women experience a creative and physical upsurge. Peace of mind, calmness, unhurriedness characterize this period of pregnancy.
At this time, your figure changes, the tummy becomes noticeable to others. Someone was looking forward to this moment, someone is worried about their increasing size. This concern is understandable, because every woman wants to be beautiful.
At the same time, fears related to the health and development of the unborn baby may arise. They are experienced in one way or another by absolutely all pregnant women. These fears, as a rule, are based on the stories of “good” girlfriends or relatives, or the sad experiences of friends. Against the background of these fears, tearfulness, irritability, and sometimes even depressive states arise.
In the last, third, trimester of pregnancy, your emotions can again be "at their best." The reason for this is rapid fatigability plus the impending birth. More often than before, there may be anxiety associated with childbirth. Increased anxiety during this period occurs in almost all pregnant women. It is important here that you are prepared for childbirth and for meeting your baby. Of course, it is very good if you attended special classes. For successful childbirth and postpartum recovery, the preliminary psychological preparation of a woman even during pregnancy is very important. She gives not only knowledge, but also confidence in the success of her new role - the role of mother. The main goal of the psychological preparation of a pregnant woman is precisely the solution of all the problems that prevent the expectant mother from enjoying the state of pregnancy. But if you haven't attended such classes, it doesn't matter. The main thing is your attitude to the meeting, the desire to see the baby, to help him to be born. As a rule, immediately before the very birth, the anxiety disappears.
During this period, many pregnant women experience a so-called “narrowing of interests”. Anything that is not related to pregnancy or to a child practically does not arouse any interest. Relatives should know this and not be surprised that conversations about a future vacation or about buying new equipment do not cause any emotions, but a conversation about the benefits or harms of diapers, on the contrary, is infinitely long. This increases the activity aimed at preparing for childbirth and motherhood. Buying clothes for a baby, choosing a maternity hospital, choosing helpers who will come after childbirth, preparing an apartment ... That is why this period is sometimes called the "period of arranging a nest."
How to beat a bad mood during pregnancy?
- During this period, it is very important that you have the opportunity to rest during the day. It is no coincidence that maternity leave in Japan is given in the first months of pregnancy, as they are considered the most difficult for a woman. It is important to understand that mood swings are a natural part of pregnancy. Above all, don't let a bad mood become the basis of your day. And then it will definitely pass.
- Maintaining a sense of humor will always help you cope with a bad mood.
- Start learning relaxation techniques. It can be auto-training, swimming. Unless medically indicated, a relaxing back or foot massage that your spouse can give is very effective.
- Spend as much time as possible outdoors. Dosed exercise will also be helpful.
- Try to do your best to cheer up: meet people who are pleasant to you, do something that fascinates you. Look for the wonderful sides of life and enjoy them.
- Don't be afraid to vent your emotions. If tears "do not let go" you do not worry - cry to your health.
- The main thing is not to drive resentment, gloomy thoughts into the depths of your soul. For a long time in Russia, a pregnant woman was advised to cry, complain to relatives, so as not to harbor an insult. But the relatives of the pregnant woman were supposed to protect her from any troubles, they were not allowed to scold her or arrange quarrels with her.
- Try to be patient and "wait out" this time, because communication with the baby is ahead - the happiest moments in the life of every woman. Remember: a bad mood does not last forever, it will soon pass.
- Remember that your doctor is monitoring your child's development closely. If, in spite of everything, the feeling of anxiety does not let go, tell the doctor about it, let him tell you in more detail about the condition of your baby. Talk to other future and established mothers - and you will understand that your fears are in vain.
- Be sure to remind yourself that your positive attitude is important to a developing toddler. Try to worry less about trifles, maintain positive emotions in yourself. To do this, you can listen to soothing music, communicate more with nature.
- Remember, anxiety and small fears about childbirth are natural.
- Try not to focus on the fact that you are tired, that you want to give birth as soon as possible, etc.
- A great way to relieve anxiety before childbirth is to prepare for it. Repeat relaxation techniques, breathing exercises. Prepare a dowry for the toddler. In other words, do specific activities.
Fears during pregnancy
Anxiety is not so dangerous if it is not about constant bad mood, obsessive, excruciating feelings, or insomnia. For most pregnant women, anxiety is a temporary condition that they can overcome on their own or with the help of their loved ones.
If you observe in yourself a constant depressed mood, which, moreover, is accompanied by insomnia, loss or decreased appetite, physical weakness, melancholy, apathy, a feeling of hopelessness, then these are already signs of depression. Depression is not a harmless condition - it is a disease. Long-term depression definitely needs treatment. In women, the appearance of depressive conditions may be associated with hormonal changes in the body. This is what determines emotional changes, i.e. changes in mood and feelings.
In medicine, there are concepts such as "premenstrual syndrome", "postpartum depression". If the former almost does not need medical supervision, then postpartum depression almost always requires medical attention. Therefore, you need to remember that in those cases when you cannot cope with anxiety or fear on your own, if bad thoughts do not leave you day or night, do not hesitate to seek qualified help. In all cases of emotional instability of one's behavior, one can and should work. A bad mood can be defeated by activity, creativity. In very confusing situations, a psychologist will come to the rescue, but first of all you need the support of your family and friends.
It is important to understand that the emotional anxiety of a woman who is expecting the birth of a child is completely natural, but excessive anxiety is harmful, because the baby is also worried about you. A violent emotional reaction does not harm the child, but experiences without reason are not beneficial either. The most common reason that gives rise to anxiety or fear in the expectant mother is a lack of knowledge about how pregnancy proceeds, what happens during childbirth. But all this is easily removable. Ask your doctor and psychologist questions, read special literature, talk with women who have already given birth. Learn to relax and calm down. Switch your attention away from any disturbing thoughts - this will allow you to get positive emotions. You need to learn not to react to troubles and enjoy life. Pregnancy is a time when you can afford not to react to small life problems. The main thing is your desire to be happy and enjoy these unique, wonderful nine months of waiting for your baby.
Having a positive attitude while waiting for your baby is very important. But it is far from always possible to maintain a good mood. The mood during pregnancy changes often and these changes are not always for the better.
Often, expectant mothers are haunted by fears, anxieties and even real depression. How can you cope with your mood and maintain a cheerful mood?
How mood changes during pregnancy
Often, pregnancy completely changes a woman's behavior, and even close people note that she has become different. And minor mood swings occur in almost everyone. Most frequent changes:
- Increased nervousness and anxiety. It is usually observed at the very beginning of pregnancy and intensifies just before childbirth.
- Absent-mindedness and forgetfulness. Usually appear in the second trimester.
- Sentimentality and. Observed throughout the entire period of bearing the baby.
- Self-doubt and anxiety. They usually increase with the development of pregnancy and peak before childbirth.
The manifestations of mood swings are very individual. They differ for each particular woman and can take even the most bizarre forms. No need to be surprised, the reason for most of the mood changes lies in the changes in the body and the woman's attitude to it.
How do changes in the body affect mood?
To ensure the normal development of the fetus, the woman's body has to endure serious restructuring. All of them affect the mood. The most obvious ones are:
- Changes in hormonal levels. The levels of biologically active substances in the body of a pregnant woman are constantly changing. Our mood is also controlled by hormones, so it changes periodically for no apparent reason.
- Too high physical and mental stress. Carrying a baby requires a lot of effort from a woman. If she does not take this into account and continues to work as usual, this can provoke fatigue and a deterioration in mood.
- Change in metabolism. This cause can also trigger mood swings.
- Anxiety for the baby. Most often this occurs during the first pregnancy, when the expectant mother does not yet know what is normal and what is not, and worries about any changes in the body.
- Global changes in life. For many women, pregnancy leads to a dramatic change in the usual way of life, and this cannot but affect the mood.
Physiological changes in the body often provoke nausea, which is traditionally called. This condition negatively affects the woman's well-being, her performance and, of course, her mood. Most expectant mothers change their taste sensations and preferences. Some previously favorite foods begin to disgust, and instead you want to eat something unusual.
From the outside it may seem whimsical, but the woman really does not know what she wants. It depresses her and spoils her mood. After all, you have to suffer from nausea, hunger and incomprehensible desires.
The same changes occur in the sense of smell. Any smell can sharply disgust or, conversely, become a source of joy. Often, your favorite perfume becomes a source of irritation. If a woman, without thinking, used them in the morning, the mood will be ruined for the whole day. Or, on the contrary, the smell of a neighboring construction site, caught by accident, will raise your vitality.
Don't forget about dizziness as well. They pursue many women all 9 months, spoiling the mood. It also irritates the growing tummy, which interferes with normal movement and fast movement. But what happiness every push of the baby brings. The future motherhood of many women fills with joy, which from the outside seems incomprehensible and unreasonable.
All these changes are absolutely normal and most expectant mothers experience them. It's just that they can manifest themselves differently in different women.
Although most pregnancy mood swings are normal and harmless, sometimes you need to pay more attention to them. Under the guise of banal whims of the future mother, more dangerous conditions can be hidden:
- Asthenia. This is a general breakdown and weakness. The reason may be insufficient nutrition due to nausea, overwork, constant stress. If a woman complains of fatigue and the inability to perform tasks that were previously given without problems, drowsiness and difficulty concentrating, she looks pale and lethargic, this may indicate asthenia. In this case, the expectant mother will need rest, proper sleep and proper nutrition. It is advisable to take sick leave and minimize stress.
- Stress. It is often difficult for weak and impressionable girls to combine their usual life with the responsibility for the baby growing inside. This leads to constant tension and stress. This condition negatively affects the woman's performance and the well-being and development of the fetus. To overcome this condition, you can take a little rest, ask to reduce the workload or take sick leave, and also try to tune in to the positive.
- Depression is a rare but dangerous condition. More often it occurs after delivery (postpartum depression), but expectant mothers are also not immune from it. This disease, which is difficult to cope with on your own, will need the help of a psychotherapist and, possibly, a psychiatrist.
Depression in pregnancy
Often, even serious depressive disorders remain undiagnosed due to the fact that all problems are attributed to hormonal changes in the body. If the bad mood persists and causes serious discomfort, it is better to consult a specialist for advice. The most common symptoms of depression are:
- Constantly depressed mood, especially in the morning after waking up;
- Feeling annoying weakness;
- Constant thoughts about your own worthlessness;
- Feeling physically unable to do anything;
- Frequent suicidal thoughts up to self-harm attempts.
To some extent, all these symptoms can also occur with fatigue, asthenia and just a bad mood. But if they are pronounced, combined with each other and do not pass for a long time, interfering with normal life, it is better to consult a specialist. The last two signs are especially dangerous. When they appear, you must contact a psychotherapist immediately.
Coping with depression
If the depression is not severe, you can try to cope with it yourself or with the help of a psychologist, but without medication. It is known that most pharmaceutical drugs can negatively affect the development of the fetus and the course of pregnancy, so it is better to choose safe methods, such as rest, walks, pleasant emotions.
If you feel that you cannot cope with your emotions, it is better to take sick leave and rest. Don't overload your already busy body.
Often the best doctor for a woman is her husband. Explain the situation to him, ask for help and support. Perhaps he will need a consultation with a psychologist. Let the specialist teach him the very basics of how to help his beloved woman and together you can overcome any difficulties.
Professional help for depression during pregnancy
In some situations, it is impossible to solve the problem of depression without the help of a professional. It is advisable to limit yourself to psychotherapy and other non-drug methods. But, if it is not possible without medication, do not be afraid and do not refuse treatment. A good specialist will be able to choose the most harmless drugs. Sedatives are most commonly recommended. They do not eliminate depression, but they help reduce anxiety and improve sleep. Sometimes this is enough for a woman's condition to improve significantly.
What to do with vagaries during pregnancy?
If a woman herself understands that there are no serious reasons for mood swings and sadness, but at the same time, from time to time she wants to cry or irritability attacks, most likely these are ordinary whims. If the expectant mother is upset by her rounded figure, nausea or other signs of pregnancy, you just need to try to relax and endure. Shopping helps to distract well. Buying clothes for pregnant women or various little things for your baby will improve your mood and help you find advantages in your condition.
If fractional nutrition, aromatherapy and other traditional methods do not help to cope with nausea, you should consult a doctor, as this condition is fraught with dehydration.
In non-dangerous cases, when nausea does not threaten the condition of a woman and a child, you can try reading funny stories about toxicosis and other delights of pregnancy on the Internet. This will help to understand that almost everyone goes through such suffering, and to find something funny in them. Another way is to write yourself about your misfortunes. He will help you to look at yourself from the outside and laugh at your problems.
A good way to get rid of whims is to succumb to them for a while. Agree with your husband in advance that sometimes he will have to play along with you, agree on the time and duration of the "whimsical period" and allow yourself to relax at this time.
You can send your husband for unknown delicacies, demand a massage, switch TV channels as soon as you don't like something, etc. Just don't go overboard or drag out your rest periods to keep your spouse from feeling depressed.
How to improve your mood during pregnancy
Often, expectant mothers themselves provoke a deterioration in their mood, becoming too hung up on their pregnancy and possible problems. It is necessary to understand that carrying a baby is a natural process for a woman. In most cases, it does not pose a danger, but on the contrary, it is a source of new pleasant sensations and incredible experience.
Even if you didn’t plan pregnancy, and it came as a surprise, this is not the end of your usual life and well-organized life. This is a miracle that will give a completely new wonderful reality.
In order to maintain vigor and good mood for all 9 months, it is very important to listen to the advice of doctors, namely:
- To live an active lifestyle. It is because of the forced rejection of some entertainment and the frequent stay at home that many women have a worsening mood. But pregnancy is not a disease. The mom-to-be may well go for a walk, visit the pool, Pilates or yoga for pregnant women. You can also attend special training courses for childbirth, which necessarily include gymnastics.
- Eat properly. Deterioration of mood can be caused by insufficient or excess nutrition, uncomfortable abdomen, etc. But during pregnancy, the desire to eat something harmful, sweet, fatty, fried, etc. is often attacked. Unfortunately, such dishes often provoke nausea, heartburn and a set of extra pounds. Therefore, if you want something "forbidden" you can afford quite a bit to enjoy the taste. The basis of the diet should be healthy meals in reasonable proportions and quantities.
- Learn and develop. Often, the mood worsens due to fear of childbirth and not understanding what is happening to the body. Knowledge will help to get rid of it. Read books, watch educational films, get ready for childbirth, not only physically, but also mentally.
- Don't forget about yourself. Buy yourself beautiful clothes for expectant mothers, do hair and manicure. It helps to understand mood and self-esteem. A pregnant photo shoot is a good idea. A professional camera will help you to look at yourself from the outside and understand how beautiful you are.
- Learn relaxation techniques. Be sure to connect your spouse to this, his help will also be needed.
- Look for pleasant emotions everywhere - watch good films, read books, go to exhibitions and walk in nature.
Learning to avoid negativity is very important. This is very difficult, since unpleasant information surrounds us everywhere. Therefore, watch the news less often, do not communicate with unpleasant people and gossips, turn off the TV if a movie scares or upsets you, and interrupt unpleasant conversations even if you have to break the rules of decency. Your well-being and baby's comfort during this period is much more important.
Sometimes you need to give vent to your emotions. If you want to cry, there is nothing wrong with that, you can just cry. But don't drive your fears and dark thoughts inside.
Remember that pregnancy is another period of life, and it will also pass, leaving in return a wonderful baby and an invaluable experience. If it is difficult, do not be afraid to ask your husband for help or tell a psychologist about it. Try to find something pleasant in every day. Soon you will meet with the child, a new stage will begin in life, and in it there will be new difficulties and a lot, a lot of joy.
Pregnancy can be challenging for the psyche. Perhaps doctors, friends, and family pay more attention to the physical manifestations of it, but for you, mood swings can be associated with no less difficulties.
Why do we experience a storm of emotions during pregnancy? And how to deal with mood swings during this period?
Why Mood Swings Occur During Pregnancy
From the very beginning of your pregnancy, you most likely feel differently, not how you expected. You may have thought that you would be nervous, but you are calm. Or you thought you would be ready for anything, but you feel insecure. Mood swings are common in the early stages of pregnancy.
Many expectant mothers experience a range of emotions during pregnancy. In the first trimester, it can be difficult to fully realize that you are expecting a baby. In the second trimester, feelings become more realistic and you ponder pregnancy and the future, and in the third trimester, you worry about realizing what responsibility (and joy too) motherhood bears. All this is a great emotional restructuring!
In addition, they leave their mark on the understandable feelings of anxiety and vulnerability.
Role reversal
Pregnancy also changes the distribution of roles within the family. If you are expecting your first child, then you are moving from your single or married status to a life where you will take care of a dependent baby and be responsible for it.
Changes can also occur in your relationship with your parents and your partner's parents. If this is their first grandchild, they may need to get used to the idea that they will become grandparents. Plus, many parents like to give advice, which can sometimes annoy you.
If you are expecting a second, third or fourth child, that also makes a difference. Perhaps now you are worried about whether you will be able to devote enough time to other children, whether you will cope with new responsibilities. Having a sibling can be stressful for other kids, but don't worry too much, it will pass over time.
What mood swings are common during pregnancy
Don't worry about mood swings during pregnancy. Remember, not all of these emotions are necessarily painful. You can alternately experience:
- Joy, feeling happy, or high spirits
- Depression, insecurity, fear
- Irritability
- Calmness
- Dependence on others
- Pride for giving the world a miracle
- Love for baby
- Uncertainty due to appearance, anxiety due to loss of control over an ever-changing body
- Absent-mindedness and forgetfulness
- Sadness for some moments from a past life
- Worries about money, caring for a child, loss of independence, changes in relationships. Fear about the birthing process, doubts about whether you will be a good mother, anxiety about other people's expectations, etc.
- Anxiety about the physical manifestations of pregnancy, such as weight gain.
- Impatience - You may feel like you've been pregnant for years
- Tearfulness
How to keep your mood swings in check
Mood swings during pregnancy are common. Here are some tips to help you get your bearings.
- Eat healthy and exercise regularly
- To reduce anxiety, start attending courses and support groups for expectant mothers, consult your doctor and psychologist, read books about pregnancy
- Share your feelings with your partner, friends, or family
- Irritability occurs more often when you're tired, so try to get more rest
- Do not self-medicate or try to self-medicate for mood swings, even herbal medications. Be sure to consult your doctor.
Right now - and this opportunity will not be presented for a long time - all attention should be focused on you, so take care of yourself whenever you get the chance. The closer you get, the more often you remind yourself that in a few years, those nine months will be a fond memory of how it all began.
Bad mood during early pregnancy is a frequent guest of women and the enemy of their health. Of course, all the nuances that spoil the life of young mothers cannot be taken into account, but any pregnant woman needs to learn one lesson: prepare for humility and follow it all 9 months.
When the mood begins to change, the body experiences stress, it seems to be heating up from the inside. And during pregnancy, this condition becomes three times worse. Think about it before going into conflict and crying all the time! The very first weeks after the conception of a baby are characterized by the construction of especially important systems of the child. This construction can end up badly if you don't deal with your bad mood.
Bad mood in pregnant women: how does it change?
Changes in the mood of a pregnant woman are noticed by all the people around her. Moreover, one mother can cry for all 9 months for no apparent reason, while the other can scream forever. What other conditions can be noted in women?
1. Restlessness and nervousness... These two symptoms of a bad mood can overtake you for any reason or without it. You leave the entrance and feel that you have forgotten the keys. What will you do? You are returning home. Already being in the apartment, you realize that you have the keys in your bag. But how worried you were about their loss! Be careful even in the simplest situations. Anxiety can turn into depression.
2. Crying mood during pregnancy... Have you noticed that you cry a lot? Then isolate yourself from TV and scary programs. Don't read horror movies. Many pregnant women like to intimidate themselves with films and related literature. Some people just want to cry, and they deliberately create situations for themselves when you can shed a tear.
3. Forgetfulness, inattention... This condition begins to come to mothers in the second trimester of pregnancy. When going to work, to the antenatal clinic, check your bag several times.
4. Self-doubt... Suddenly, for no apparent reason, you decided that you were not confident in your strengths, beauty and previous functionality in general. Your strength goes to the health of the baby, so there is nothing wrong with your condition. Just don't dramatize the situation. You are still the same. Sometimes you just need to be patient, lie in bed, drink some tea and calm down.
When you catch one sign of a bad mood, take immediate action to eliminate stress. You will read how to do this in this article.
Bad mood in a pregnant woman: what happens in the body?
Bad mood during pregnancy, especially in the early stages, occurs due to a number of changes in the body. Here is some of them:
- Changes in hormone levels, and, as a consequence, a change in the intensity of metabolism. Many hormones are known to affect mood. Therefore, your household from the first weeks of your new position can easily guess what happened to you.
- Many life circumstances do not allow a pregnant woman to create comfortable conditions around herself for carrying a child. Someone continues to work, and even in the hospital does not part with the computer. Some people are reluctant to quit drinking, smoking, or exercising. Although in most cases, gynecologists immediately put a ban on the usual way of life. Of course, all these factors affect the female body, which, being processed, simply malfunctions, which lead to stress and bad mood.
- , especially in the third trimester, caused by excessive concern for the baby. Usually, the last weeks before childbirth are very difficult: edema, varicose veins, allergies and other troubles occur. During this period, mommy is especially worried about herself and the baby. In addition, before the hospital, she needs to have time to prepare all the things for the baby and herself. Agree, this is no less stressful than the birth itself.
- In the early stages the body only adapts to the new position. Because of this, a woman's mood can also deteriorate.
In addition to psychological reasons, there are also physiological ones. For example, toxicosis. Someone suffers from it for almost the entire pregnancy. This is also a great reason for a bad mood in the expectant mother. During the development of the baby in the womb, the woman's perception changes. For example, some of your favorite scents can get very nasty. Imagine that you cannot eat your favorite ice cream or salad because these products have begun to exude an unpleasant aroma for you. What if your new favorite perfume began to disgust? Of course, even such trifles are annoying.
But a bad mood during pregnancy, whether it is in the early stages or just before childbirth, can be eliminated.
Bad mood during early pregnancy: what to do?
A bad mood during early pregnancy brings a lot of grief. But what is the reason for it? Now one trend has become fashionable: now, if a couple wants to have a child, they must be examined, prepare for pregnancy and childbirth, both mentally and physically. On the one hand, this is correct. Because in the digital age, people have forgotten about the environment and the state of human health. On the other hand, planning a baby doesn't mean wanting one. Some already after childbirth understand what a happiness it is to have a son or daughter. Others immediately discard the baby.
Unfortunately, women today have simply forgotten about the maternal instinct. Because of this, they have a hard time during pregnancy.
Bad mood and pregnancy, unfortunately, are gradually becoming synonymous.
Therefore, psychologists have come up with a number of tips to which future mothers are simply obliged to listen:
- Don't plan your pregnancy. At some point in preparation for childbirth or conception, you may get bored with the whole process. A kid is a full-fledged person, not a toy that can be thrown away or given away.
- When you find out about your new situation, find out more about pregnancy and childbirth. Read a few books on parenting. Or just hang out with other moms.
- Whatever your financial situation or whoever you live with, know that you will never be closer to your own child. Work on yourself and your consciousness. Don't jump to conclusions.
- Do not take any medication without your doctor's approval. If you really feel bad, have tea with mint and lie down to rest.
Know that in the early stages of pregnancy, your psychological attitude towards the baby is important.
How to deal with a bad mood during 2nd trimester pregnancy
When the bad mood of the early term has already gone, and the pregnancy of the second trimester is on the verge, it's time to calm down and find yourself for the duration of all 9 months. What does this mean? You have to find something to do for yourself, so that you periodically get distracted from all the bad things.
- Get creative... Maybe you dreamed of learning to play the guitar or the piano? You may be good at drawing. And best of all, compose a fairy tale for your kid! In general, take your soul as you please, within the framework of creativity, of course.
- Be sure to try knitting... Why not? Tie your first baby booties or undershirt. Perhaps this will become your additional income.
- Be sure to add good people to your circle of acquaintances. Meet a couple of pregnant women, talk to them about your condition, tell about your hobby. It helps a lot to get rid of negativity.
- Try to surround yourself with beautiful pictures.... Pregnancy is the best time to meet great artists. Also take up reading Russian and foreign classics. Fill your soul with only beautiful and selective information.
- Change your wardrobe if you have the opportunity... Pamper yourself, just a little. Buy a blouse or dress.
These tips are sure to help you avoid your bad mood. Look for yourself in a variety of activities and you will find something to help you calm down.
Bad mood during pregnancy: 3rd trimester
The third trimester is the most difficult and responsible. Even a bad mood in early pregnancy, which can be characterized by a particular surge of emotions, cannot compete with the last weeks before childbirth.
G Incologists, together with psychologists, advise you to refer to the following recommendations:
- In the last weeks before the hospital, try to joke more and perceive the world in terms of humor. Believe me, this is possible in any life situation. Many people, finding themselves in terrible places, for example, in a dark forest, survived only thanks to the strength of the spirit, which is kept in a good mood.
- After waking up, charge yourself up for a good mood by thinking about a new day and saying a few pleasant words to yourself.
- Never discuss your problems with anyone before childbirth. The less they know, they sleep better. In general, this advice is universal, but if you are still a chatterbox, learn to remain silent.
- Before giving birth, do not try to find out who gave birth how. Everyone knows that childbirth is unpleasant and painful. They run differently for every woman. And you don't need unnecessary details of other people's births.
- Create your own comfort zone: remove the things in the house that annoy you, communicate less with those who, in your opinion, do not want your well. Eat what you want (only reasonably).
Of course, you may not achieve complete comfort, but you will succeed in making your pregnant life better.
Bad mood during early pregnancy: diet therapy
Since the mood of pregnant women changes often, and you want to eat a lot under stress, nutritionists advise you to correct your diet as follows:
- Forget about various condiments and marinades... Eat more vegetables and greens. Basil and some curry are also allowed.
- Give up fried... Bake vegetables and boil them. Try to use your grill very rarely.
- Eat more fish. Pamper yourself with red fish species. Be sure to eat mullet, lightly salted herring and sardines. Fish contains a lot of vitamin B6 and phosphorus. Thanks to it, you will be less nervous.
- Use foods rich in vitamins A and E. You can also buy them in drops and add them to food and even shampoos.
- Chromium is very beneficial for the body... It helps relieve stress. Eat peas, meat, and wholemeal bread to replenish supplies.
- Now let's move on to prohibited foods: give up sweets.... Sweets, cakes and pastries will not be able to help you in any way. True, they gain weight well from them. Do you need it?
Do not overeat, do not make a plentiful table. If you are afraid to overeat, start counting calories.
Bad mood during pregnancy: early depression
A bad mood during pregnancy, especially in the early stages, can derail all your plans. But sometimes it becomes unclear whether it is hormones raging, or whether the woman has problems.
How to understand the symptoms of depression in a pregnant woman?
- Watch yourself. Are you feeling depressed? How often does it visit you? Maybe every day. This is the first sign of depression.
- Do you feel weak? If it occurs often, then you should contact your gynecologist.
- Do you think that you can no longer do anything useful in this world?
- Can you do your favorite thing? Do you have the strength to get out of bed and make yourself some soup?
Answer these questions for yourself. If the answers to them scared you, do not delay and go to a psychologist. Under the guise of a bad mood, real depression can be hidden.
Bad mood during pregnancy- the phenomenon is very frequent and unpleasant. Especially it starts to get bored in the early stages. Psychologists say that stress and depression can be avoided by thinking a little about your new position. Try to find the pros in your current condition. Do gymnastics, exercise. Cheer yourself up in any way you can. If it's really hard for you, find a close-minded person or seek help from a psychologist. Don't give in to a bad mood!
