When you’re pregnant, there a whole bunch of things you can do to get your body ready for the rest of your pregnancy and parenting journeys. But have you thought about getting mentally prepared? Mental health is a major component of a healthy pregnancy, and Ovia wants to help you be as healthy and happy as possible.
With our added mental health content, we’re aiming to destigmatize conversations about mental health during pregnancy, provide resources for tending to and strengthening your mental health, and share strategies for making the most of these resources.
The basics
Ever wonder “>what causes depression and “>anxiety disorders, “>postpartum depression, “>bipolar disorder, and other types of postpartum mood disorders? Or how “>pre-existing mental health conditions can affect a pregnancy? Or what the difference is between a “>psychologist and psychiatrist? A lot of people wonder about these things, so we hunted down the answers.
It can be hard to tell the difference between “>feeling sad and being depressed, which is why we’ve set up the “>Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) in Ovia. The “>EDPS is a “>screening tool that healthcare providers use to determine whether a person has depression, and if so, how severe it is. We’ve also provided a ton of resources, because “>depression during pregnancy and postpartum is common, and taking care of your “>mental health is important for your pregnancy.
The resources
In addition to Ovia, which can help you “>track your emotions during pregnancy, there are a ton of people who can provide insight and support when it comes to emotional and mental health support. Your “>primary healthcare provider can be an excellent person to explore and advocate for your needs with, and to help you “>access care. “>Partners and friends can help you build a healthy “>support network as well.
“>Promoting wellness during pregnancy can look however you want or need it to. You can connect with some furry friends, make time for laughter, meditate (which can be intimidating – “>we know), or find a fulfilling “>fitness routine. Or you can make up your own “>self-care practice!
The next steps
If you think that postpartum depression “>might be on the horizon, treatment is an “>important step. If you have a “>history of postpartum depression, this is especially important. Finding the right “>treatment options for “>depression and anxiety looks different for each person, as healthcare providers make “>treatment decisions on an individual basis. For some people, treatment can involve “>antidepressants, which are sometimes covered by your insurance.
Ovia wants you to have the happiest and healthiest pregnancy possible, which is why we’ve added so many new articles and features to help you find balance. Start now by tapping on any of the articles above.
