Emotional Changes During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a very special moment in a woman's life. It's also a time when many transformations take place. In this article we'll highlight some of the emotional changes to expect during this precious stage.

Undoubtedly, women go through many physical and emotional changes throughout their pregnancy. They need to know how to act in the most appropriate way to have a healthy and happy nine months.

Important psychological changes occur during pregnancy. Some examples include anxiety, frustration, and internal conflicts.

Pregnancy may represent one of the most important moments for self-awareness in a woman’s life. The intensity of emotional changes can also cause some women to feel frustrated.

Thinking about your future child and knowing about the changes that will happen can be helpful. This can make future mothers feel as prepared as possible for their child’s birth.

Emotional changes during pregnancy

Many women, at some point in their lives, want to have children. However, once you’re actually pregnant, it might be different than you had imagined.

Also, some moms are amazed that they experience such mood swings, irritability, and rapid changes between sadness and joy. These intense emotions are due to hormone overloads and changes in their bodies’ appearance.

In fact, it’s normal for pregnant women to have these feelings. They shouldn’t be ashamed. It’s important that they have the opportunity to express their feelings.

In addition, they need to feel understood without being judged. Therefore, it’s necessary that they have support from their partner, friends, and other pregnant women.

The emotional changes in the three trimesters

Women’s feelings change as each trimester passes. Each stage brings its own set of new emotions.

Below we’ll explain how emotions change in all three trimesters:

First trimester

It’s very possible that the emotional changes in the first three months are very minor. As a future mother, you need to accept the fact that you’re pregnant.

Then, you can start mentally preparing for the upcoming months. The first physical discomforts may make you feel emotional and fatigued.

Second trimester

Without a doubt, this trimester can bring many positive emotions for expectant moms. 

Many people consider this the most enjoyable stage of all. This is because women feel less intense emotions, less tired, less pain, and have an increased sex drive.

Third trimester

During the last few weeks of pregnancy, pregnant women experience emotional stress and shocks. This may be due to weight gain, pain, and even concerns about childbirth.

In addition, they might start to feel overwhelmed about their future responsibilities.

Anxiety: the most significant emotional change

One of the most relevant changes is the increase in anxiety that the expectant mothers feel. Primarily, it can be produced by the following things:

• Anxiety about the birth of the child.

The most frequent fears are that the child might have a health problem.

• Anxiety related to themselves and their own body experiences.

It’s a concern that arises as a result of changes in body weight and shape. However, these are actually really common concerns that women can overcome.

• Anxiety linked to the couple’s relationship.

Pregnancy and the period after birth can cause many changes and habits for couples. For example, there could be a reduction of sexual desire.

This can make the couple feel dissatisfied. It’s important to address it to keep it from continuing, even after giving birth.

In addition, during pregnancy, women may also experience sudden mood swings. However, it’s also a period when women feel joyous and fulfilled.

Symptoms of emotional changes during pregnancy

If women are very concerned with their emotional changes, the first recommendation is to consult their doctor.

Here are some scenarios that require immediate medical assistance. If you notice that you suffer from any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately:

• Persistent mood swings
• Episodes of anxiety
• Insomnia
• Memory loss
• Sadness and frequent crying
• Feelings of guilt and uselessness
• Impatience and lack of self-control
• Lack of interest in activities you normally enjoy
• Hot flashes, abdominal pain, tremors or dizziness

Finally, keep in mind that intense emotional changes will disappear after delivery. If they persist, you should see a doctor. 

Talk to your doctor before taking any medications or natural remedies for depression or mood swings. Remember, it’s important to take care of yourself since your health is a priority.