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Pre-baby Blues
Depression Before Baby Arrives
By Shannon McKelden
Help Is Out There"Education is, of course, great," Dr. Klugman says. "A woman should try to take a step back and try to relax a little during pregnancy. This is very hard for women of our generation who want to do it all."
"Too many women go through pregnancy and birth thinking it cannot happen to them," Greene says. She also warns that having pre-baby depression may indicate a higher probability of having postpartum depression. "We now know that the best predictor of the level of depression after delivery is the level of depression during pregnancy."
Joseph suggests asking for help and building a support team among family and friends as a safety net during and after pregnancy. "Women who are unsupported are more likely to succumb to depression," Joseph says. "Learning about the signs of true depression will allow a woman to get help in a timely fashion; any symptom or symptoms that become so debilitating that the quality of life is impacted are pointers that professional intervention may be necessary."
Finally, Joseph believes there is a wealth of help available. "Professionals who can help include childbirth educators, doulas, nurses, midwives, counselors, social workers and, of course, physicians," she says. "Look for opportunities to be around other expecting mothers at moms groups, libraries, playgrounds, baby stores and prenatal appointments, or if you are more comfortable, join an online support group."
* Last name withheld to protect privacy.
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