Overview
Pregnancy is a period of great physical, psychological, and emotional changes for a woman. Studies show that some pregnant women may be vulnerable to depression due to certain factors such as hormonal changes, stress, and fatigue. It has been observed that depression during pregnancy can have negative effects on both the mother and the unborn baby. Depressed pregnant women might be less likely to attend prenatal visits, receive adequate nutrition and follow other necessary health instructions. Moreover, depression during pregnancy can lead to preterm labor, low birth weight, and postpartum depression. For this reason, it is very important for pregnant women to be aware of potential depression symptoms in order to get timely medical attention. With appropriate care and support, pregnant women with depression can manage their mental health and provide a healthy environment for their developing baby.