Medically Reviewed By Experts Panel
Mood swings are quite common in the first trimester. They are mostly experienced during the between 6 to 10 weeks. While some of you may experience dramatic mood swings, others may have more controlled emotional highs and lows.
You may be happy and laughing one minute, and then crying or sulking the next.
There are handful of reasons you have mood swings during pregnancy – hormones, sleep deprivations, anxiety as well as excitement, changes in the body like growing breasts, morning sickness, etc, that you have to get accustomed to.
To deal with mood swings in early pregnancy, it’s important to take care of yourself physically and emotionally. Here are a few strategies to ease mood swings.
It is important to understand that mood swings are nothing to worry about, it is just another aspect of the pregnancy experience. Here are some ways to help you relax –
- Eat well – Eating a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein can help stabilize your mood by providing your body with the nutrients it needs. Green leafy vegetables, for instance, are a rich source of iron and folic acid. Take milk and dairy products like curd, buttermilk, paneer-these are rich in calcium, proteins and vitamins.
- Get regular physical activity – There are several health benefits for women who exercise during pregnancy, including better weight control and improved mood. Exercise helps release endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. Even light exercise, such as a daily walk, can be beneficial.
- Get enough sleep – Lack of sleep can exacerbate mood swings, so make sure to get enough rest and try to establish a consistent sleep schedule.
- Engage in your favourite activities – Read a book, watch a movie, take up knitting – all of these have a calming effect physically as well as emotionally.
- Pregnancy yoga class or meditation – Yoga in pregnancy is a great way to stay active. You will use relaxation and breathing techniques with postures that are adapted for pregnancy.
- Get a massage – Getting a massage during pregnancy can also help to put you in a better state of mind and cope with mood swings, anxiety and stress.
- Communicate with your partner: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause emotional ups and downs. Open communication with your partner can help them understand what you are going through and provide support.
It’s important to remember that mood swings during early pregnancy are normal and usually temporary. However, if you have concerns about your mood or symptoms, it’s important to discuss them with your doctor who can provide assistance and comfort.
