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Am I depressed or just feeling down?
Sometimes, with all the normal emotional changes around pregnancy, it's hard to know when to look for help. If you are feeling low more than you are feeling happy you should talk to someone.
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I am terrified about giving birth. What can I do about it?
Most women, particularly first time mothers, feel worried or scared about giving birth but for some the fear is much greater.
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I have an existing mental health problem, what do I need to do?
It’s a good idea to tell the doctor who looks after your mental health problem that you’re planning to get pregnant.
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I have antenatal depression. Will I get postnatal depression?
If you have antenatal (pregnancy) depression, your chances of experiencing postnatal depression are increased but it doesn’t mean you will definitely continue to be depressed after birth.
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I'm stressed about everything. Will this effect my baby?
Some stress in pregnancy is normal and usual, but chronic (continual) stress can sometimes affect the way an unborn baby grows and develops.
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If I tell my midwife I feel low, what will happen?
At least one in ten women feel unwell mentally in pregnancy or soon after the birth.
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Is it safe to take antidepressants in pregnancy?
Some treatments for depression may carry risks during pregnancy for the baby. Your healthcare team should talk to you about your care and the risks and benefits of any treatment they will recommend.
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Sleeping and pregnancy
It’s common to feel unusually tired when you’re pregnant, and it can be very frustrating if you can’t get to sleep.
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What if I'm really not coping?
If you are feeling continually anxious, low or miserable, for more than two weeks, or you have feelings that you just can’t cope with, speak to your midwife or doctor as soon as possible.
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Why do social services want to check on me after I've had the baby?
If you have a serious mental health problem, social services may call in to check that you are coping.
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Will I be able to breastfeed if I'm on medication?
Breastfeeding has benefits for your baby, and health professionals will encourage you to do it if you can.
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Will my baby be taken away?
Most women who have had mental health problems go on to be successful parents.
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Will my medication affect my baby?
It depends on the type of medication. Some types of medication for mental health problems have risks for your baby if you take them when you are pregnant or when you are breastfeeding.
ℹLast reviewed on February 1st, 2015. Next review date February 1st, 2018.
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