Depression during Pregnancy Increases the Risk of Preterm Labor

One of the biggest fears of a pregnant woman is a. something going wrong with the baby and b. preterm delivery. But what was recently discovered is that depression actually increases your risk of going into preterm labor.

Researchers followed 791 women who were interviewed when they were 10 weeks’ pregnant. At that point, 41% had symptoms of significant or severe depression. Interestingly, those with less severe symptoms had a 60% higher risk of preterm delivery (under 37 weeks) and those with severe depression had double the risk.

The best advice I think a pregnant woman can get out of this is if you are feeling down talk about it. Talk with those around you, talk with your doctor or if you really feel the need seek help. This does happen, so don’t feel bad, we know your biggest concern is your baby’s health. Seek help if it is needed. Try staying focused and journal your experience.

Head over to WombWithin to find out other ways you can have a safe pregnancy.