It is quite normal to experience mood swings during pregnancy. We tend to have mood swings every day and we can go from wanting to cry to feeling angry at life itself, without anything happening around us.
The emotional effects of pregnancy hormones and common pregnancy concerns They are the culprits of these changes and anger that appear to us for no apparent reason. But even so, we can manage to control these changes and reduce them.
Why are we so grumpy during pregnancy?
One of the main reasons for mood swings is change in hormone levels. When we get pregnant, we increase the amount of estrogen and progesterone in the blood. This hormonal increase prepares our body during pregnancy, but it can also affect our mood, making us feel sad or angry without anything happening to us.
Hormones also have a great impact on sexual desire. There may be times during pregnancy when you feel particularly aroused, while at other times, sex might be the thing you least want to do at those times.
However, it's not just about the hormones. The fact that do not stop changing things in your day to day it also influences the mood. It is an important change in your life and sometimes you may even wonder what trouble you have gotten yourself into, and other times you will have a great desire to be able to see the face of the little one that is growing inside you. You may feel nervous, apprehensive, vulnerable ...
The most common concerns during pregnancy would be:
- if you are going to be a good mother
- if you diet or lifestyle is affecting the baby's development
- how having a child will affect your relationship
- yes your baby will be born healthy
- how are you going to manage financially
- how your career or profession may be affected
- if your partner still finds you attractive
If you have had a problem with a previous pregnancy, you may also be concerned that it might happen again.
Many people also become more forgetful during pregnancy, which can be frustrating. Also, it's hard to stay cheerful all the time when we are dealing with the health changes of pregnancy, such as heartburn and morning sickness ...
When will you stop having mood swings?
Moods tend to become more manageable in the second trimester, as your body adjusts to these higher levels of hormones. Sometimes, however, the mood swings can last throughout the pregnancy.
It is even possible that we can have a "relapse" when we had already managed to control the situation. It is totally normal. This usually happens more as your due date approaches. When we feel that the baby is about to come to light is when the concerns also come to light, more than before.
How to handle these mood swings?
First of all, it is important do not judge yourself for his always wanting to cry or angry. And think that there are some things that can make you control this situation a little more, despite the hormonal changes.
Talk about it
One of the best antidotes when you feel depressed or stressed is speak with someone. Explain how you feel to your partner, friends and family. You might be surprised how understanding they can be.
Sign up Yoga classes for pregnancy or prenatal classes will help you understand that you are not the only one who feels this way. You will meet other people in the same stage of pregnancy as you, and you can give advice and help each other.
If you prefer to talk to someone confidentially, you can always talk to their midwife about anything that worries you at one of their routine appointments or make an appointment with your GP.
Ask for practical help
Understandably, you want to have everything ready before your baby arrives. But you don't have to decorate the nursery, clean all the cabinets, and buy every piece of clothing and gear with one hand and all at once. You see doing, calmly, and remember that once the little one is born the world does not stop, you can also do those things that you still have to do.
In addition, a pregnancy does not have to be carried alone, that is what husbands, friends, family are for ... Let them help you.
Find moments of calm
Many people find it helpful use relaxation or meditation techniques to improve your mood and feel calmer during pregnancy.
You can also use relaxation and visualization audios.
Get plenty of rest
It's easy to feel more irascible if you're tired, so try get enough sleep. Try writing a list before bed of worries or tasks that you have to do the next day. This can help you clear your mind and sleep better.
If it's a work issue, talk to your boss to see if there is any way to take more breaks.
Take time for self-care
Watch a movie that makes you feel good, catch up with friends over breakfast, or listen to your favorite podcast. You can even create your own mini spa to pamper yourself at home.
Get some exercise (light)
Exercising improves mood, and you don't have to do strenuous exercise to get those feel-good chemicals flowing. The next time you feel irritated or anxious, go for a swim, take a walk outside, or do some simple yoga exercises.
Bond with your partner
Often times it is those closest to us who bear the brunt of our mood swings. This is probably because we feel loved and safe enough with them to express our sadness, anger, and frustration.
Letting them know that you still love and love them can prevent your partner from taking things too personally and ease the tension between you.
Try spending time together. It will help strengthen your relationship before the baby arrives.
Your partner may also have their own concerns about becoming a parent. Talking about them can help you stop thinking about your problems, as well as feel closer to each other.
Stop feeling guilty
Pregnancy is a life changing event. You are likely to feel overwhelmed, irritable, and nervous on many occasions. So be kind to yourself and accept that you will have some negative and other wonderful feelings during your pregnancy.
What should you do if you cannot get rid of anger during pregnancy?
If you are constantly feeling angry or in a bad mood, or if your worries interfere with your day-to-day life, you may need some help. extra help.
One in eight women experiences depression or anxiety during pregnancy, which can lead to feelings of bad temper and anger. Many people experience both states during pregnancy.
Talk to your GP or midwife as soon as possible if:
- you feel sad, worthless, or hopeless for extended periods
- you feel like you can't control your worries or anxiety
- you lose interest for the things you normally like to do
- repeat certain behaviors frequently, such as washing hands or checking social media
- you have panic attacks
- you have trouble concentrating or making decisions
- you have lost your appetite
- have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
- are you afraid of giving birth
- do you have thoughts of hurt you yourself or others,
Your GP or midwife will be able to provide you with the help and treatment you need.