Why has getting pregnant made me so moody?
Progesterone and oestrogen, the female hormones which regulate the reproductive cycle, are thought to be partly responsible, but much of your moodiness is simply due to the fact that pregnancy is a time of tremendous change. You may be overjoyed at the thought of having a baby one day, then just as quickly begin wondering what it is you've gotten yourself into.
Even when a baby is very much wanted, many ecstatic mothers-to-be find that concerns about the future momentarily cloud their happiness. You may be worried about how your relationship will be affected, the health of the baby you're carrying and how you'll handle future financial challenges. Some of the minor problems of pregnancy, such as heartburn, fatigue and frequent urination can also be a burden. All these concerns may take your emotions on a roller-coaster ride.
Even when a baby is very much wanted, many ecstatic mothers-to-be find that concerns about the future momentarily cloud their happiness. You may be worried about how your relationship will be affected, the health of the baby you're carrying and how you'll handle future financial challenges. Some of the minor problems of pregnancy, such as heartburn, fatigue and frequent urination can also be a burden. All these concerns may take your emotions on a roller-coaster ride.
When are my mood swings most likely to occur?
Mood swings tend to be most pronounced in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. They should gradually diminish as you sort things out and as your body adapts to the hormonal onslaught.
How can I manage my mood swings?
Mood swings are part of the pregnancy experience. It's not surprising that you're feeling highs and lows, sometimes from one minute to the next. Knowing that you're behaving as expected (and as your hormones dictate) may reduce some of the guilt you may be feeling.
If you're down in the dumps, do something that makes you feel good. Take a nap, go for a walk or see a film with a friend. Don't be too hard on yourself. One of the best antidotes is talk therapy -- literally. Talk through your feelings with friends and family or if you prefer, to your doctor. Pregnancy is a life-changing event, one that's bound to make anyone -- even a mum who's wanted a baby for years -- feel overwhelmed, irritable and anxious sometimes.
If you're down in the dumps, do something that makes you feel good. Take a nap, go for a walk or see a film with a friend. Don't be too hard on yourself. One of the best antidotes is talk therapy -- literally. Talk through your feelings with friends and family or if you prefer, to your doctor. Pregnancy is a life-changing event, one that's bound to make anyone -- even a mum who's wanted a baby for years -- feel overwhelmed, irritable and anxious sometimes.
What if I can't shake my moodiness?
If you feel like your mood swings are more than run-of-the-mill, it may be a good idea for you to see a therapist. About 10 per cent of mums-to-be battle mild to moderate depression throughout their pregnancies. If you often or consistently feel blue, you may fall into this category.
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