Third Of Pregnant Women Feel Depressed And Anxious
Almost a third of pregnant women suffer strong feelings of depression and anxiety, according to a new survey.
The poll found that many are struggling with signs of antenatal depression - depression in pregnancy - but are afraid to tell their doctor or midwife.
NHS data suggests up to 15% of women suffer antenatal depression, although the new survey suggests this could be far higher.
Some 30% of mothers-to-be frequently experience five or more key indicators of antenatal depression, according to the poll.
These include feeling anxious for no reason, losing interest in day-to-day activities and feeling so unhappy they cry.
Jan Cubison, a volunteer for Light Sheffield, which is a group who support families said:
"Unfortunately we don’t see the majority of women who suffer. The expectation these days is that when you have a baby - you lose weight you look gorgeous and you're having a great time - but of course we know from the women we see, there's an awful lot who don't feel like that. Not all of them feel they can say anything."