Anxiety and Depression in Pregnancy

It is commonly known that mood swings are a normal part of pregnancy. Irritability, irrationality, weepiness, misgivings, fear, joy and elation are all commonly seen mood changes. For some women however, these feelings become overwhelming, resulting in consistent or frequent periods of anxiety and depression. Women who may be prone to developing these feelings include women who have had a personal or family history of mood disorder, those experiencing health problems and those who lack emotional support during their pregnancy.
Symptoms that suggest that these emotions are more than just a response to the hormonal changes of pregnancy include the following:

• Exaggerated mood swings
• Sleep disturbance
• Changes in eating habits (loss of appetite for prolonged periods that is nor related to nausea or morning sickness)
• Prolonged periods of fatigue or high energy
• Extended loss of interest in activities normally enjoyed

If these symptoms continue longer than two weeks, it is recommended that women receive some help.  This may be from a trained medical professional such as their midwife / obstetrician, a counsellor, psychologist, doctor or specialist who may help guide a woman as to the right path to deal with the symptoms.
Acupuncture East can play an effective part in treatment of anxiety and depression during pregnancy.  Women usually respond quickly from regular acupuncture treatments, and women find their anxiety, depression and related symptoms ease.  Acupuncture East have a wonderful network of other specialist practitioners who they regularly refer to if a patent needs some extra care.