What are the symptoms of depression during pregnancy?

The symptoms of depression can seem like the usual ups and downs of pregnancy. But some clues that may point to depression during pregnancy can include:

• A lot of anxiety about your baby.
• Low self-esteem, such as doubt that you'll be a good parent.
• Lack of interest in the pregnancy.
• Little response to support from loved ones or healthcare professionals.
• Not getting prenatal care or following a healthcare professional's instructions.
• Smoking, drinking alcohol or using illicit drugs.
• Poor weight gain due to not eating enough or getting enough nutrition.

Depression in pregnant people also can cause the same symptoms as in people who aren't pregnant. Tell your healthcare professional if you have any of the following symptoms for two weeks or longer:

• Sad mood most of the day, almost every day.
• Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy or in work.
• Feelings of guilt, hopelessness or worthlessness.
• Trouble sleeping or sleeping more than usual.
• Poor weight gain due to not eating enough or getting enough nutrition, or eating much more than usual and putting on too much weight.
• Tiredness or a lack of energy.
• Trouble staying focused or making choices.
• Restlessness.
• Thoughts of suicide or self-harm — call 911 or your local emergency number right away.

The risk of depression seems to be similar during each of the three trimesters of pregnancy.