Every pregnant woman has a different emotion experience. Some women are experiencing big changes throughout their pregnancy, while others are only experiencing it at the beginning.
Despite a sense of well-being in general, some women are surprised to experience rapid mood changes manifesting, for example irritability, alternating cry explosions to great joys. The intense emotions a pregnant woman may feel can result from hormonal outbreaks and changes in her body appearance.
Whether pregnancy is planned or not, several women may feel ambivalence at the beginning of pregnancy. Ambivalence is a normal response to preparing for the new role of mother. On the one hand, pregnancy provides great pleasure of accomplishment. On the other hand, the pregnant woman may also feel a sense of regret about her past life that she must mourn.
All these feelings are normal. It’s important that the mother-to-be has the opportunity to express and understand them without feeling judged. Talking with your spouse, friends or other pregnant women can tell the mother that she is not alone experiencing such questions.
Weight is a sensitive topic
Pregnant women also experience mixed feelings about their transforming bodies. Some days they feel special and fulfilled, while others, especially at the end of pregnancy, feel like they are fat and clumsy. Most women can’t wait to get back to their bodies after birth.
Some pregnant women don’t like to look in the mirror and react badly to remarks about their height or weight. This is absolutely normal. Avoid comparing a mother-to-be body with that of a woman who is not pregnant.
2th quarter: more positive emotions
Several moms-to-be say the second trimester is the best, as they experience fewer intense emotions during this time. This is the trimester where a pregnant woman is often said to be ′′ resplendent ". Conversely, during the last weeks of pregnancy, women often experience emotional stress. This can be due to weight gain, end of pregnancy pain and pain, as well as concerns about childbirth and future maternal responsibilities. So, don’t worry if you’re not ’ shining ’ in your ninth month of pregnancy!
Symptoms to watch out for
If you are very concerned about your emotions or your self perception, contact your doctor or other healthcare professional immediately. If it’s clinical depression, anxiety disorder or bipolar disorder, it’ll be easier to treat or help you manage your condition if you check out as soon as possible. There are several possible treatments, with or without drugs. Your doctor will discuss everyone’s pros and cons with you and your partner.
But how do you know if the emotional symptoms you’re experiencing are serious enough to discuss with your doctor or other healthcare professional?
You should check out if you’re experiencing ANY of the symptoms below. Some people may seem annoying to you, but don’t hesitate to tell your healthcare professional. Don’t wait for the situation to degenerate.
Persistent mood changes (which have lasted for over 2 weeks relentlessly).
Frequent anxiety and growing bad mood.
Ruminations that cause insomnia.
Frequent inability to fall asleep or feel tired.
Inability to eat or lack of frequent appetite (especially if you don’t gain weight or lose weight).
Short term memory loss, difficulty focusing, remembering something or making decisions.
Loss of interest in activities you usually like.
Almost constant agitation.
Lack of energy, especially after the first quarter.
Macabre or suicidal thoughts.
Constant worries about baby development.
Sadness and frequent crying.
Heat flushes, abdominal pain, tremor or dizziness.
Feelings of guilt, devaluation or despair.
Impatience, lack of self control or energy.
Feeling guilt or failure to place the future role of mother.
Withdrawal behavior at partner, family, friends or work colleagues.
Most emotional changes should disappear after birth. If not, it is recommended to consult your doctor or midwife.