So after a few weeks of dealing with this I've decided to blog about it. It affects every one in ten pregnant women with 25% of cases starting during pregnancy. I'm talking about postpartum depression. Yeah, I didn't think you could get it while you are pregnant but you can, and as many of my friends who check in on our blog are pregnant I wanted to out myself so that I may be able to help someone else.
When I think of postpartum I think of those really crazy moms on Dr. Phil who talk about wanting to hurt or neglect their child or being unhappy as a mom, and while this is a serious reality for a select few, for most women experiencing postpartum its just your hormones gone a bit wacky causing a lack on energy or desire to do simple everyday things like go to the bank or grocery store, to want to stay home in PJ's rather then get ready and go out that day. Sometimes its easier to want to sit at home with the blinds shut and keep the world out.
So, that's how I've been feeling the last month, not the crazy part, the lethargic part. My job has been a tremendous help to me though, I'd be a lot worse off without it. It gives me a reason to put on makeup and do my hair pack up Sarah and get things done that day. My friends have also been a huge help in providing opportunity for me to get out and socialize, this especially helps me feel better that day. But to be completely honest and this might horrify some people but the thing that really helps me the most is caffeine...in the form of Diet Coke. After talking to my Dr. at length we came up with 3 options: medication (which I don't care to take, it's really helpful for some women but I don't feel I need to go there) therapy (which my husband, daughter, mom and friends are for me anyway) and diet and exercise (which includes Diet Coke, says my Dr.). The small boost is just enough for me to push through the slump and get going that day, which is usually all I need. You'd think I wasn't sleeping or something, but most nights I get 10 hours! And still wake up feeling no better for it. So I'm choosing to medicate with Diet Coke so long as it works for me...
I'm posting all this to let my pregnant friends know that if you feel this way during or after pregnancy, while "normal", you don't have to feel that way. Hormones gone crazy can be helped and I would recommend talking to your doctor and informing yourself so you can be best armed to combat this frustrating problem. And I pray that none of you will have to deal with it :)
I love being a mom, I love my little Sarah so much and I feel so much more capable of being a good mom when I'm feeling good. I am so excited about our new baby girl arriving this summer, I can't wait! I love my little girls with every fiber of my being and have found greater purpose and sense of self since becoming a mom. These babies were some of the best choices I've ever made in my life and I'm so thankful to have such a wonderful husband who has transformed into an amazing father.
For more info check out:
http://www.womenshealth.gov/faq/depression-pregnancy.cfm
http://www.babycenter.com/0_depression-during-pregnancy_9179.bc
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