Pregnancy is often portrayed as a time of joy and excitement, but for some women, it can also bring significant emotional challenges. Kathryn Abel, Professor of Psychological Medicine, sheds light on how mental health disorders, particularly depression, can impact pregnancy. Here, she answers four common questions about depression during pregnancy, offering valuable insights and advice.
1. Are Some Gynecological Conditions Related to Mental Health Disorders?
Dr. Abel explains that certain gynecological conditions are indeed more prevalent among individuals with mental health disorders. For instance, conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and female infertility are more commonly observed in those with mental illness. Moreover, mental health disorders such as depression or schizophrenia can complicate pregnancies, leading to outcomes like premature labor and smaller babies.
She notes, “Babies born to mothers with severe mental illness may have slightly lower Apgar scores—a test that assesses how well a baby is doing at birth in terms of breathing and muscle tone. However, these babies typically recover quickly.”
Unfortunately, Dr. Abel also points out that severe mental illness during pregnancy can increase the risk of losing a baby. Factors like severe depression, substance use, and infections heighten this risk. “Teenagers, people who use drugs or alcohol, and those with infections are at the greatest risk of miscarriage,” she adds.
2. If Someone with a History of Depression Plans a Pregnancy, What Steps Should Be Taken?
For individuals with a history of depression who are planning a pregnancy, Dr. Abel emphasizes the importance of communication with healthcare providers. “It’s crucial to inform your prenatal care team, midwives, and doctors about your mental health history,” she advises. This allows for better monitoring of your mood and overall health throughout the pregnancy.
Dr. Abel stresses the need for comprehensive support and information. “Pregnancy can be overwhelming, and having access to manageable, supportive information is key,” she says.
Regarding antidepressant use, Dr. Abel highlights the importance of seeking medical advice before making any decisions. “Stopping antidepressants doesn’t have to be final—you can always resume if necessary,” she reassures.
Only about 20% of women who experience depression during pregnancy will develop severe depression, according to Dr. Abel. Therefore, decisions regarding treatment should be personalized, taking into account the individual’s circumstances rather than relying solely on general data.
She also underscores the significance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle: “Good nutrition, support from friends and family, abstaining from alcohol and drugs, not smoking, and taking essential vitamins like vitamin D and folate are all crucial for a healthy pregnancy.”
Dr. Abel also reassures women who may have taken antidepressants before knowing they were pregnant: “It’s important not to feel guilty or blame yourself for taking necessary medications to stay well.”
3. Are Antidepressants a One-Size-Fits-All Solution?
While antidepressants can be an effective treatment for severe depression, Dr. Abel emphasizes that they are not the only solution. “A holistic approach that includes good nutrition, support from loved ones, and healthy lifestyle choices is vital for a healthy pregnancy,” she notes.
Antidepressants should be considered as part of a broader strategy that addresses the unique needs of each individual. This ensures that the treatment plan is tailored to the person, rather than being based on a generalized approach.
4. How Can Nutrition and Regular Exercise Help?
According to Dr. Abel, good prenatal health practices can mitigate some of the risks associated with depression, such as premature birth and low birth weight. “These problems are often more prevalent in individuals who lack access to resources like nutritious food and healthcare,” she explains.
Healthy individuals who have access to these resources tend to have lower rates of premature labor and low birth weight. “They don’t smoke, they exercise, and they maintain a balanced diet,” Dr. Abel observes. “The principles of staying healthy during pregnancy are much the same as staying healthy at any other time in life.”
Conclusion
Depression during pregnancy is a complex issue that requires careful attention and support. Dr. Kathryn Abel’s insights emphasize the importance of comprehensive prenatal care, personalized treatment plans, and healthy lifestyle choices. By taking proactive steps and seeking appropriate support, women with a history of depression can navigate pregnancy with greater confidence and well-being.
References
1. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/delivery.htm
2. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/22640-stages-of-labor
3. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/morning-sickness-nausea-and-vomiting-of-pregnancy
4. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/Depression
5. https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.1905890116
