Perinatal Depression: What You Should Know and Why You’re Not Alone

Pregnancy is often portrayed as a time of joy, glowing skin, and excited anticipation. But for many women, this season of life is far more complicated. Depression during pregnancy, also known as perinatal depression, is a serious but often missed condition that affects the mental and emotional well-being of expectant mothers.

What Is Perinatal Depression?

Perinatal depression is a mood disorder that can develop during any stage of pregnancy. It goes beyond occasional mood swings or sadness caused by hormones. Women with perinatal depression may experience:

• Persistent sadness or hopelessness

• Fatigue or low energy that doesn’t improve with rest

• Changes in appetite or sleep

• Difficulty bonding with the baby

• Anxiety or excessive worrying

• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or inadequacy

• Loss of interest in activities that used to bring joy

• Thoughts of self-harm or harm to the baby

If you’re feeling this way, you’re not weak, and you’re not alone. Perinatal depression is more common than you might think—affecting up to 1 in 7 pregnant women. But, many suffer in silence due to fear of stigma, guilt, or the belief that their feelings are “just part of pregnancy.”

Mood Swings vs. Depression

It's important to really understand the difference between common mood swings and clinical depression. Mood swings during pregnancy are typically short-lived and often tied to hormonal shifts, fatigue, or stress. You might feel irritated one minute and teary the next, but those feelings usually pass relatively quickly. Depression, on the other hand, is more persistent and pervasive. It can interfere with your daily life, relationships, and ability to function. If you’re finding it hard to shake the sadness, feel emotionally numb, or struggle to get through the day, it may be more than just pregnancy hormones, it could be depression.

What Causes It?

The causes of perinatal depression vary, and often it’s a combination of biological, emotional, and environmental factors. Hormonal changes can significantly affect brain chemistry. Other risk factors may include:

• A personal or family history of depression or anxiety

• Relationship stress or lack of support

• Unplanned or high-risk pregnancies

• Financial stress or other personal struggles

• Past trauma or loss

Why It Matters

Untreated depression during pregnancy can impact both the mother and the baby. It may lead to poor prenatal care, substance use, poor sleep, premature birth, or difficulties bonding with the newborn. After birth, some of the lasting effects are increased stress levels, decreased ability to cope with stress, and increased risk of having emotional and behavioral problems. Most importantly, it takes a heavy emotional toll on a mother who deserves compassion, support, and care during this transformative time.

Getting Help

If you suspect you may be experiencing perinatal depression, reach out. Talk to a mental health professional who specializes in women’s mental health or your OB-GYN. A professional that specializes in women’s mental health can help you best determine the safest and most effective course of treatment. Therapy, support groups, lifestyle changes, and sometimes medication (safely monitored during pregnancy) can make a significant difference.

You are not alone, and help is available.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, please call or text the National Mental Health Crisis Line at 988.

If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, please visit your nearest emergency room.