From the moment you first suspect you might be pregnant to the moment you hold your baby in your arms, motherhood can be an emotional rollercoaster ride. Your mood will drop during morning sickness, suddenly rise when you hear your baby's heartbeat for the first time, and then drop to another low point when your back hurts in the third trimester.
Pregnancy can be overwhelming and the series of emotional ups and downs can leave you exhausted, but that shouldn’t stop you from experiencing a happy pregnancy.
If you are looking for ways to improve your mood during pregnancy, here are some suggestions:
Studies have shown that interacting with experienced or new mothers during pregnancy, and receiving continuous support from your husband, relatives and friends during labour can lead to better childbirth outcomes.
You can plan ahead for the upcoming day and this helps to reduce stress. Mentally preparing for labour ahead of time can help improve your physical and mental condition during pregnancy, which will definitely make you happier!
If you feel sad and anxious, you can improve your overall health by relieving muscle tension with a massage, which can also help relieve some of the soreness that might be making you feel down. Many studies have shown that during postpartum breastfeeding, regular warm compresses and massages can stimulate the secretion of estrogen and promote milk production.
Satisfying and authentic relationships can help with the transition to motherhood. Spending time with family and friends can help reduce anxiety, relieve stress, and keep you in a good mood. Spending more time with loved ones can also help you feel socially connected and motivated, and these interactions and connections can provide a source of support during your pregnancy.
Knowledge is power, and it also helps to reduce stress. You can reduce anxiety by taking parenting classes and preparing for your upcoming parenting roles. You can also build self-confidence through the learning process, and this newfound confidence helps to increase happiness. You can find relevant courses through hospitals, clinics or support groups.
In addition, participating in parenting classes can also expand your social circle as you interact with other parents-to-be. Facing the same challenges such as sleep deprivation and breastfeeding, it is easy for mummies to bond and truly understand what other mummies are going through.
Research has shown that exercise can help to reduce anxiety and depression. Exercise not only helps to boost your mood, but also helps reduce feelings of pain. You can see positive results immediately without high-intensity exercise.
