Hormonal and physical changes, emotional shifts during pregnancy, combined with psychological pressures such as anxieties about motherhood, finances, relationships, or a history of mental health disorders can lead to depression in pregnant women, according to Dr. Pham Van Duong, from the Department of Internal Medicine at Tam Anh General Hospital, Hanoi.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that approximately 10% of pregnant women globally experience mental health disorders, most commonly depression. The rate is higher in low- and middle-income countries, potentially reaching 15.6%.

Depression causes numerous physical and emotional symptoms, often mistaken for normal mood swings during pregnancy. Common signs include persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness, lack of energy, chronic fatigue, sleep disturbances, loss of interest in daily activities, difficulty concentrating, persistent anxiety, sudden mood changes, and thoughts of self-harm.

These negative feelings lasting over two weeks can affect daily life, reduce quality of life, and pose health risks to both the mother and the fetus. According to Dr. Duong, if left untreated, this condition can lead to neglecting self-care, poor nutrition, prolonged sleep deprivation, and the use of stimulants like alcohol and tobacco to alleviate emotional distress. The mother is also more susceptible to anemia, high blood pressure, and gestational diabetes.

Negative emotions increase uterine artery resistance, reducing blood flow to the fetus, potentially leading to slow intrauterine growth and premature birth. Stress also creates changes in the vaginal microbiome, increasing the risk of bacterial and fungal vaginitis in stressed pregnant women. These microorganisms can be transmitted to the baby during labor. Prolonged negative emotions disrupt the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, increasing cortisol levels in the blood, which is transmitted through the placenta, affecting fetal brain development. Mothers experiencing depression during pregnancy often interact less with their babies, negatively impacting the child's cognitive, emotional, and communicative development.

Depression during pregnancy also increases the risk of postpartum depression. This can lead to insufficient milk production, reduced bonding with the baby, and, if prolonged, can result in negative thoughts and behaviors. Dr. Duong advises families to provide psychological support to pregnant women. A happy mother is more likely to give birth to a healthy baby. If symptoms of depression appear during pregnancy, expectant mothers should consult a mental health professional to determine if they are truly experiencing depression or other conditions with similar symptoms. From there, the doctor can recommend appropriate treatment options. Treatment for depression during pregnancy is personalized, balancing benefits and risks. Some applicable methods include psychotherapy and medication.

Dr. Duong consults with a patient. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital, Hanoi

Dr. Duong consults with a patient. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital, Hanoi

According to Dr. Duong, not all cases of depression during pregnancy are preventable. However, taking care of mental health from the beginning of pregnancy can help reduce this risk. He recommends that expectant mothers attend prenatal classes to prepare psychologically for motherhood, establish a healthy lifestyle including sufficient sleep, a balanced diet, meditation, prenatal yoga, and light physical activity. Pregnant women should avoid excessive stress at work and home and confide in loved ones or mental health professionals when feeling overwhelmed.

Trinh Mai