This Is Why No One Talks About Prenatal Depression

We have all heard about postpartum depression, and have even started talking about postpartum anxiety. That is a HUGE step, and is a conversation that must continue.

Moms need support. We need to be able to share our struggles, and lean on eachother.

But, you dont have to be a mom or a woman to advocate for us.

Something that no one talks about, and what I didnt even know was a thing is prenatal depression.

Very similar to PPD, but this occurs while baby is still in the womb.

If you experience prenatal depression statistics show it will most likely be in your first trimester.

But, of course it can show up whenever during pregnancy.

First trimester is most common because thats when women feel the crappiest.

Keep reading if you want to learn more about prenatal depression, and how it affects many women without us even knowing.

Also, if you want to read something more fun click here to get inspo for everything you’ll need for your new baby!

My diagnosis

During January 2022 my husband took me to the urgent care several times.

I had severe nausea that just wouldn’t let up, and each time we were told the routine stuff –

“Try peppermint”

“Ginger can ease your stomach”

“Taking B6 and staying hydrated should help”

We told every nurse that none of that worked. I could barely eat, water tasted disgusting, and my mood kept getting worse.

As if seasonal depression isn’t bad enough!

It wasn’t until our scheduled doctors appointment with my OBGYN that I really noticed it.

When you’re pregnant they give you a questionnaire to fill out or they screen you themselves.

So, I did the routine screen for depression, and anxiety.

As I was filling it out it became crystal clear that I was depressed.

I lost joy for just about everything

I wasn’t smiling or laughing, and I cried pretty much all day everyday.

There were days my husband left for work, and when he came home I was in the same spot from hours earlier.

To be honest, part of me wanted to stretch the truth a bit when I had to answer the questions, because the reality was so concerning.

I found myself being ridiculously unhappy and I didn’t see a way out of it.

I remember typing in Google “depressed feelings while pregnant” and that’s when I read more about prenatal depression in this article.

The signs were scary accurate to what I had been experiencing.

I told my husband about it, and a lightbulb went off for both of us.

Like, ohhh that’s why I’ve been feeling this way.

I’ve also struggled with depressive episodes since I was a teenager. And, you’re more likely to experience PPD, and prenatal depression if you’ve already dealt with it before pregnancy.

It was all making so much sense, and that honestly made me feel better about it.

How I coped

Once I knew about my prenatal depression I became motivated to overcome it, and one day hopefully help other moms that are struggling. If you know me you know how deeply I love and wanted my son, so it wasn’t easy going through what seemed really contradicting at times.

But, one thing you must remember is your pregnancy journey is uniquely yours. I am so beyond grateful for my baby, and thankful that my husband and I conceived.

I know it’s not easy for many couples.

However,

I was also allowed to not feel great about how my symptoms made me feel; physically and mentally. Those two things can exist at the same time.

Don’t let anyone try to tell you differently.

Pregnancy is a beautiful, magical experience- without a doubt. That doesn’t mean its always enjoyable though.

If you’re struggling right now the one cliché I’ll give you is “It’s all worth it once you hold your baby for the first time.”

I don’t know what this amnesia is, but my baby is so perfect I most definitely want to do this again and again.

Finding support

If you think you may have prenatal depression, or are remotely concerned about your mental health

Reach out to someone!!

There’s NOTHING wrong with asking for help, or needing support.

This is such a vulnerable time, and you deserve to be cared for.

To give our babies the best we need to help ourselves as well.

That means listening to your body, and doing what’s best for you, and that’s going to look different on everyone.

You are important.

You’re not just an incubator for your unborn.

You need to do what makes you feel good.

Do what makes you feel a I i v e.

– You’re doing your best –

So, if you’re having a hard time – I see you, and I’m sorry.

I know you’re doing the best you can and that is enough!

This isn’t going to last forever.

I know that sucks to hear when you’re in it, but I promise there is light at the end of the tunnel.

You will start to feel like yourself again, don’t worry.

I’m rooting for you 🙂