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What factors increase the risk of mental health problems during pregnancy?

Anyone can experience depression or anxiety during pregnancy. Usually there is no one cause, but a range of contributing factors: having a history of mental health problems prior to pregnancy; having a family history of mental health problems; problems with alcohol and drug use; a history of physical, psychological or sexual abuse; an unwanted or unexpected pregnancy; a lack of practical and emotional support, or serious relationship difficulties; recent major life-events that have caused stress, such as losing a job, or the death of a family member or close friend; other medical conditions including severe morning sickness; a general tendency to be anxious and worry; a tendency to be a perfectionist or self-critical; multiple pregnancy (twins or triplets), and; teen pregnancy.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

How are pregnancy and mental health related?

Pregnancy can be a time of great change. While it can be joyful and very exciting, it can also place extra stress on both women and men, which can lead to an increased risk of mental health problems. Mental health conditions such as anxiety and …

What are the symptoms of mental health problems in pregnancy?

The physical and hormonal changes that occur in pregnancy can make it difficult to recognize signs and symptoms of depression and/or anxiety. Some symptoms that may be experienced include: anger and irritability; low mood, …

Who gets depression relating to pregnancy?

Around one of every ten women experience persistent symptoms of depression during pregnancy.

What is prenatal depression?

Prenatal depression is depression experienced during pregnancy. It is also known as antenatal depression.

What are the baby blues?

The 'baby blues' is a term for symptoms that can occur in many women in the week after birth. They can include rapid changes in mood, crying, anxiety and sleep problems. The exact cause of the baby blues is not clear, but they are thought to be linked to rapid …

What is postnatal depression?

Postpartum or postnatal depression can also occur after birth, but involves symptoms of depression that are more severe and can last much longer than the baby blues. The symptoms of postnatal depression are similar to those during pregnancy and: can be serious …

What is postnatal psychosis?

Sometimes also known as puerperal psychosis or postpartum psychosis, this is a rare mental health condition that usually develops within a couple of weeks of childbirth, although it can occur up to 12 weeks after childbirth. Sometimes early symptoms may occur …

Is pregnancy-related depression serious?

Prenatal and postnatal depression can be very serious. In some cases they may increase the risk of self-harm or suicide and, after the baby is born, harm to the baby.

What are the side effects of taking medications for depression relating to pregnancy?

While medications, such as antidepressants, can be effective in reducing symptoms of both depression and anxiety, they may also have a negative effect on the baby's development and the mother's …

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About this article

Author: Dr Joanne Van der Velden PhD, BSc (Hons)
First answered: 27 Oct 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Votes: 387 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Bipolar disorder

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