Pregnancy isn’t always the easiest time. Sometimes you can experience a whole range of emotions in a very short space of time. These emotional rollercoasters don’t happen to every woman during pregnancy, but how do you cope if you are having mood swings during your pregnancy?
What causes mood swings?
There’s a number of potential causes of pregnancy mood swings.
Hormones
Your hormones change quite dramatically during pregnancy. Hormones that will support you and your baby are released, but your body might need some time to get used to them. In the meantime, you might feel like crying one moment, and deliriously happy the next.
Fatigue
All of us are guilty of feeling a little moody when we’re tired. It’s no different during pregnancy. If you feel tired, fatigued, or generally sleep deprived, then you’re more likely to experience mood swings. You’ll probably feel more tired during the first trimester, and again, during the last trimester.
Morning sickness
Morning sickness doesn’t just have physical symptoms of vomiting, but it can impact your state of mind. A constant feeling of nausea can affect your mood, and lead to mood swings.
Stress and anxiety
Mood swings can also be caused by feelings of stress and anxiety. You might be worrying about labour, parenting, money, or work. If you feel stressed, you’re more likely to suffer mood swings.
What to do to help your mood swings
These tips can help you cope with pregnancy mood swings.
- Eat well. If you feel hungry, or if you’re craving a food item, you can experience mood swings. Eat healthy foods, and also eat little and often. Keep a supply of nutritious snacks so that you can stave off hunger-related mood changes.
- Gentle exercise can help relieve stress and boost your mood. A gentle walk outside, or swimming may help you cope with your mood changes.
- Sleep should be a priority during your pregnancy. If you need a nap, take one. If you need extra pillows, use them. Do whatever it takes to make sure that you sleep as well as you possibly can.
- Tell your family and friends how you’re feeling. It can help them understand your mood swings. You might also want to think about joining a local group for mums-to-be for more support.
- Ask your healthcare providers for support. If your mood swings are more related to concerns, fears or anxieties around your pregnancy, you can raise your concerns with your midwife, nurse or doctor. They should be able to give you reassurance which can help you manage your mood.
- Don’t be hard on yourself. Pregnancy is different for every woman, and if you are experiencing mood swings, don’t be too hard on yourself. These mood swings are temporary, and they will pass. Be patient with yourself and give yourself time and space to relax.
