Pregnancy and postpartum can deeply affect a woman, both physically, emotionally, and psychologically. She goes through so much that often goes unnoticed by family and friends, until she exhibits severe symptoms. While most of us are aware of postpartum depression that many women go through, it is just one side of the coin. A lot of women also experience perinatal depression and anxiety, which often begins during pregnancy and continues for a couple of years postpartum.
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Sharing an incident, Dr Munia Bhattacharya, Senior Consultant Psychologist, Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram says, “A few months ago, a new mother sat across from me and said something that many women quietly carry within themselves: Everyone keeps asking how the baby is doing. Nobody asks how I am doing.”
That single sentence captures the reality of perinatal depression and anxiety.
Pregnancy and motherhood are often painted as magical experiences. While they can be deeply meaningful, they can also be emotionally exhausting. For some women, the struggle is not visible from the outside. They may be smiling in family photographs while internally battling fear, sadness, guilt, or an overwhelming sense of inadequacy.
Also Read:Â Perinatal Depression Increases Death Risk By Suicide, Says Study
What is Perinatal Depression and Anxiety
Perinatal depression and anxiety can occur during pregnancy or within the first year after childbirth. A woman may find herself crying without knowing why, feeling disconnected from her baby, constantly worrying that something terrible might happen, or questioning whether she is a ‘good enough’ mother.
One of the biggest myths doctors encounter in clinical practice is that motherhood automatically creates happiness. The truth is that becoming a mother is not just the birth of a baby. It is also the birth of a new identity. And every new identity comes with adjustment, uncertainty, and vulnerability.
Also Read:Â Sleepless After Childbirth? Understanding Postpartum Insomnia
“As I often tell my clients, A struggling mother is not a failing mother. She is a human being carrying more than what others can see,” shares Dr Bhattacharya.
Another important reality is this: You do not have to enjoy every moment of motherhood to love your child deeply.
When recognised early, perinatal depression and anxiety are highly treatable. Sometimes the most powerful first step is simply giving a woman permission to say, “I am not okay right now,” and knowing that she will be met with support, not judgment.
Final Word
Both pregnancy and postpartum are difficult phases in a woman’s life. It is easy to slip into depression if she is not taken care of. Family and friends need to give her extra TLC and support.
FAQ
Does prenatal depression go away?
Prenatal depression may not go away on its own. It may require professional help, but this condition is highly treatable.
How long can perinatal depression last?
If left untreated, prenatal anxiety and depression may take months or even years to heal completely.
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Current Version
Jun 23, 2026 20:05 IST
Published By : Chanchal Sengar
