Natural treatments for depression in pregnancy include adequate sleep, dietary changes and exercise. According to Kimmelin Hull, author of "A Dozen Invisible Pieces and Other Confessions of Motherhood," approximately 10 to 20 percent of pregnant women experience some type of prenatal depression. When you are not comfortable with the risks associated with antidepressants, you can find many alternative therapies and remedies.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Folic Acid
According to a study published in the August 2008 Journal of Affect Disorders, omega-3 fatty acids and folic acid effectively alleviated perinatal depression as a complementary treatment. Additionally, these supplements prove to be beneficial to both babies' development and mothers' health. Also cited for their ability to ease depressive symptoms in depressed mothers were S-adenosyl methionine (SAMe) and St. John's wort.
Massage Therapy
A study published in the October 2007 Journal of Body and Movement Therapies founds that depressed pregnant women who were given massages by their partners experienced alleviation from depressive symptoms. The women received massages twice a week from their second trimester through the end of their pregnancy.
Exercise as Therapy
The University of Michigan's Depression Center cites exercise as an effective way to treat depression in pregnancy. Physical activity alleviates depression by "releasing the body's mood-elevating compounds," as well as reducing the depression horomone cortisol. The research center advices depressed pregnant women to exercise 20 to 30 minutes at least three times a week.
Adequate Sleep to Prevent Depressive Symptoms
To prevent worsening of depressive symptoms, get an adequate amount of sleep during pregnancy. Try using body pillows or props to help alleviate discomfort and help you sleep more soundly. Get your body used to a regular sleeping schedule. Prepare for bed with relaxing rituals such as reading or taking a bath.
Dietary Changes
Be sure to follow a healthy diet plan during pregnancy that includes foods from the four basic food groups: fruits and vegetables, bread, dairy and meat. For guidelines on what to eat while pregnant, visit the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services website at womenshealth.gov. Foods to avoid if you are pregnant and depressed include refined sugar, caffeine and chocolate. Increase your intake of calcium and B vitamins, especially B6, to help ease symptoms.
