Emotions
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Pregnancy is a time of change, growth, and excitement. But along with that excitement comes emotional and hormonal changes. Each woman's body and emotional health reacts differently to pregnancy. Some may not notice too much of a difference from their average emotional state, while others will notice dramatic shifts in temperament. The progression of pregnancy also can affect the degree of change and the type of emotion experienced.
In order to simplify, let's break it down into what you can expect during each of the three trimesters and post-pregnancy.
First Trimester:
This is generally when a woman's emotions begin to intensify. Some women also experience mild depression. With the increases of estrogen and progesterone, mood swings are common and should be expected. You'll find that one moment you are joyful, content, and happy. The next moment, you will be on the verge of tears--sometimes without any explanation or reason. While this may become frustrating for you, it is a part of pregnancy. Embrace the changes; relax and enjoy it when you can.
Sometimes when a woman first finds out she is expecting, she experiences happiness, doubt, fear, and uncertainty. All these emotions are normal and need to be worked out with your partner and other appropriate family members and friends.
It is important to talk to your partner, family, and friends about your emotional changes. This way, they will be more understanding and empathetic. If you need additional emotional support from them, let them know. More than likely, they will be happy to oblige and provide for you what you need in order to make you happy and comfortable.
Second Trimester:
This is where your intensified emotions generally ease up. Most women enjoy this part of pregnancy the most because you have more energy and the esteemed glow of pregnancy. Not to mention, you get to feel the baby move. Maybe it is because your body is becoming acquainted to the hormone changes or the symptoms lessen. But either way, most women don't experience as severe of mood swings during their second trimester.
Because of the lack of sleep and sheer exhaustion during the first trimester, the second trimester is a great time to play catch-up. Getting adequate sleep will greatly improve your less-than-happy moods because you will be well-rested and more relaxed.
Third Trimester:
Much like the first trimester, the mood swings generally increase. And because of the increased discomfort and tiredness, you may feel more irritated and upset. If you add the worry, concern, anxiety, worry, excitement, fear, and happiness of the impending labor and delivery, it can be completely overwhelming and stressful.
During the third trimester, it is important to take some time for yourself; take time to do something that you love to do--keep your spirits up and healthy. If you experience more negative emotions, talk to your partner about it. They will understand and may be able to calm your feelings and help increase your happiness and excitement for the new baby about to come into the world.
Post-Pregnancy:
As your body begins to revert back to its normal state, you will still experience more sensitive and a wide range of emotions-especially if you decide to breastfeed. Eventually, your emotions will abate and lessen to pre-pregnancy levels.
The following pages will provide you with in-depth information about pregnancy depression and social anxiety. There is also information about how to emotionally deal with pregnancy after a traumatic event in your life. We want to give you resources to make your pregnancy a happy and exciting one.
