Mood swings of pregnancy

Even if you were really looking forward to your pregnancy – the first few months can be so difficult to handle that they leave you down and out really depressed at times. And these moments of depression can be punctuated by moments of exhilaration. Altogether- contributing to bewildering mood swings.

A large part of your swinging moods can be attributed to the surging hormones in your body and the remaining to the major adjustments you are compelled to make - as your body and energy levels change.

But whatever the cause - swinging moods are not easy to live with. They can make life miserable for you – and everyone around you. So it is worth it to try and minimise them.

• Eat frequent small meals that are rich in complex carbohydrates and proteins – so that your blood sugar does not crash
• Avoid sweets and chocolates.
• Minimise your caffeine intake. If possible eliminate caffeine from your diet altogether. This includes going slow on tea, coffee and carbonated beverages.
• Do not attempt a fat free diet. Take in moderate amounts of healthy fat – like olive oil. Good fats keep you happy.
• Exercise. Moderate exercise keeps the endorphins in circulation and you happy. Exercising when you can get some sunlight – can really pep you up.
• Make sure you also get enough rest. Rest that was enough before you got pregnant may not be enough now. Fatigue causes depression.
•  Try to minimise your stress. This of course is easier said than done. But attempt it nevertheless by offloading your problems and worries onto a sympathetic friend or relative.
• Try and explain to your spouse – what exactly you are going through and how hormones and not you – are to blame for your erratic behaviour. It may be an effort to explain calmly – what you are feeling and what you need. But having a supportive spouse on your side can really help when you are in the grip of a crazy mood swing.

If mood swings are not just mood swings – but blatant attacks of depression – make sure you visit your doctor and tell him/her about your problem. You could require medical help.

Author Bio

Dr. Debmita Dutta (MBBS, MD) is a Parenting and Wellness Consultant. She belives Parenting – is an Art that is deeply rooted in Science – Medical Science. It is impossible to Parent right without an understanding of how your child’s growing Brain and Body function – because his / her Brain and Body are what make him the person he is.