Does Depression During Pregnancy Hurt an Unborn Baby?

Not surprisingly, many women experience mood changes in pregnancy. Most are happy, but a little apprehensive about bringing a new life into the world. They may question whether they'll be a good mom - and if they can provide the best for this tiny family member who will be so dependent on them. Hormonal fluctuations also contribute to the mood changes in pregnancy most women experience at some point over the nine months of pregnancy.

What about women who experience more severe mood problems when pregnant? A new study shows that anxiety or depression during pregnancy not only affects the mom-to-be, but the unborn baby as well - in sometimes serious ways.

Depression During Pregnancy: Does It Lead to a Smaller Baby?

Researchers looked at the mental health of over 700 pregnant women living in Bangladesh, India and compared their mental health with the birth weight of their babies. Was there a correlation between a mom's mental outlook and how much her newborn weighed? Yes. Researchers found that moms who experienced anxiety or depression during pregnancy were more likely to deliver a small baby.

Why is giving birth to a small baby a problem? A small baby has a higher risk of dying prematurely and a greater risk of health problems including cerebral palsy, mental retardation, hearing and visual problems, and learning disabilities during childhood. A baby is considered to be of low birthweight if they weigh less than five pounds, eight ounces at birth.

Depression during Pregnancy: It Can Cause Other Problems Too

A mom-to-be who's depressed during pregnancy and doesn't seek help may have problems dealing with the every day realities of caring for a newborn baby - or even herself. The depression doesn't always go away after a woman gives birth. For some, the symptoms worsen.

Depression during pregnancy isn't uncommon either. According to the American Pregnancy Association, up to one in five women will experience symptoms of depression during pregnancy, and a quarter will have major depression.

Anxiety and Depression during Pregnancy: The Bottom Line

Any woman who experiences anxiety or depression during pregnancy should talk to her doctor immediately. There are safe treatment options available that doesn't involve the use of medications - including support groups and private counseling. Exercise, massage, or light therapy are non-drug treatments for anxiety and depression that may have some benefits.

Pregnancy is a challenging time - and women who are experiencing mental health symptoms should seek help, not only for their own well-being, but for the health of their unborn baby.

References:

Medical News Today. "Smaller Babies Delivered By Depressed Mothers"
American Pregnancy Association. "Depression During Pregnancy"