There are few experiences in life that are as significant as that of being a mother. Having a baby can be an exhilarating and sometimes unpredictable time. Along with the physical changes of childbearing and giving birth, a woman may also go through emotional changes as she prepares for motherhood. Sometimes, instead of being excited, joyful and in the pink of health, she can find herself struggling to cope with the pregnancy, or with caring and adapting to a Newborn in her life.

A woman’s emotional well-being during this period of time is just as important as her physical health. During pregnancy, a woman under tremendous stress may go into early labour. After delivery, a mother who experiences symptoms of depression may have difficulty bonding with the child.

Studies have shown that up to one in 10 women would experience depression during pregnancy or after birth. If you are having the symptoms of depression or anxiety for most days up to two weeks, or you have difficulties functioning in your daily life, you are entitled to be cared for, so that you can go on to care for your loved ones.

Symptoms of depression include:

• Low mood
• Irritability
• Tearfulness
• Poor sleep
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
• Poor appetite
• Poor concentration or forgetfulness
• Loss of energy
• Excessive self-blame or guilt
• Feeling hopeless or that life is meaningless
  
  

Some women may also have accompanying anxiety symptoms, such as:

• Feeling tense
• Palpitations, feeling breathless, chest tightness
• Panic attacks
• Excessive worries about the baby
  
  

Depression is highly treatable if you are willing to seek help. Treatment involves therapy or counseling, and medication where necessary. Women often worry about the safety of antidepressants, but there are options available for pregnant or lactating women that are clinically beneficial.

For a consultation with a KKH Women’s Mental Wellness specialist, please call our Appointments / Specialist Outpatient Clinics Enquiries Hotline at 6294-4050.