Jakarta –
Pregnant women should be aware that depression during pregnancy can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, you know. How come? Please pay attention to the following explanation.
Cardiovascular disease is a disease caused by disorders of the heart and blood vessels. Examples of common cardiovascular diseases include heart attacks, arrhythmias, heart failure and strokes.
Quoting pages Healioon research European Heart Journal finding depressive symptoms during pregnancy may indicate increased cardiovascular risk in women. Especially hypertension, ischemic heart disease and heart failure.
“Our research group has found that perinatal depression is associated with an increased risk of several other health problems, including premenstrual disorders, autoimmune disorders and suicidal behavior, as well as premature death,” said Donghao Lu, MD, PhD, assistant professor in the integrative epidemiology unit at Institute of Environmental Medicine.
According to research Journal of American Heart Association quoted from the page StrokeMothers who experienced depression during pregnancy were more likely to be diagnosed with cardiovascular disease within two years after giving birth than those who did not experience depression.
“We need to use pregnancy as a window into future health,” said Dr. Christina M. Ackerman Banks assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology-maternal fetal medicine at Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston.
Banks said complications during pregnancy, including prenatal depression, impact long-term cardiovascular health. Therefore, pregnant women who experience depression are advised to undergo counseling to prevent the risk of cardiovascular disease.
“The postpartum period provides an opportunity to counsel and screen people for cardiovascular disease to prevent them,” Banks said.
For mothers diagnosed with depression during pregnancy, cardiovascular disease such as;
1. 83 percent higher risk of ischemic heart disease, a condition caused by narrowing of the heart arteries.
2. The risk of cardiomyopathy is 61 percent higher.
3. The risk of arrhythmia or cardiac arrest is 60 percent higher.
4. 32 percent higher risk of new high blood pressure diagnosis.
5. The risk of stroke is 27 percent higher.
The study shows that the overall percentage of women who experience one of these conditions is low. Even so, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of pregnancy-related deaths in the United States and other high-income countries.
Causes of depression during pregnancy
Emma Brann, PhD, a postdoctoral researcher in the integrative epidemiology unit at the Institute of Environmental Medicine at Karolinska Institutet said there is a possibility that genetic or family factors are involved in someone experiencing depression.
“There may also be other factors involved, as are the links between other forms of depression and cardiovascular disease. These include changes to the immune system, oxidative stress and lifestyle changes that lead to major depression,” said Emma Brann.
How to deal with depression in pregnant women
According to Banks, chronic inflammation and increased stress-related hormones may also contribute to high rates of post-pregnancy cardiovascular disease.
Banks recommends that pregnant women diagnosed with prenatal depression be aware of its impact on their long-term cardiovascular health.
“They should take steps to screen for other risk factors and consult a doctor for treatment and prevention of cardiovascular disease risk,” Bank said.
The bank also advises pregnant women to be screened for other possible diseases. More than that, pregnant women are required to adopt a healthy lifestyle, such as exercise, healthy eating and exercise.
“They should also be screened for type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol, as well as adopt an exercise regimen, healthy diet and stop smoking,” he said.
Additionally, Amani Meaidi, MD, PhD, of cancer surveillance and pharmacoepidemiology at the Danish Cancer Institute in Copenhagen, Denmark, discussed the importance of treating depressive symptoms during the perinatal period.
“The first oral treatment for postpartum depression, making treatment more accessible to millions of women who suffer from this condition. Appropriate perinatal depression therapy can also reduce the increased risk of cardiovascular morbidity,” said Amani Meaidi.
Hopefully the information is useful, Mother.
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Expecting Mothers, Brace Yourselves: Depression Could Be a Heartbreaker!
Well, well, well, it appears pregnancy isn’t just a walk in the park—it could be a scenic detour into the depths of despair and cardiovascular calamities! Who knew that while you’re busy eating pickles and ice cream at 3 AM, your heart could be plotting against you? But let’s unwrap this bag of nuts, shall we?
According to some rather eye-opening research, pregnant women feeling a little glum might just be setting themselves up for heart issues later on. And I mean not just your typical ‘I can’t find my favorite stretchy pants’ blues, but serious stuff like ischemic heart disease and heart failure. Talk about a double whammy!
In the words of Dr. Donghao Lu from the Institute of Environmental Medicine, depression during pregnancy isn’t just a fleeting emotion; it’s like a sad little canary in a coal mine, warning us about the risk of other shifty health problems. High blood pressure, autoimmune disorders, and, oh, suicidal behavior are just the tip of the iceberg. Who needs horror movies when reality’s this riveting?
What’s the Damage? Heart Attacks and High Blood Pressure, Oh My!
Now, let’s get specific. Should you find yourself grappling with the weighty emotions of pregnancy, you might want to swat away that dark cloud hovering over you because:
- 83% higher risk of ischemic heart disease—don’t let the arteries get all jealous of your expanding waistline!
- 61% higher risk of cardiomyopathy; your heart doesn’t want to throw a tantrum, trust me.
- 60% higher risk of arrhythmia—your heart’s BPM should be doing the cha-cha, not the cha-ching of alarm bells!
- 32% higher likelihood to develop high blood pressure. So you might need that extra tall glass of water after all!
- 27% increased risk of stroke; because who wouldn’t want to add that to their list of pregnancy bingo?
It sounds like a dreadful recipe, doesn’t it? And let’s not sugarcoat it: cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of pregnancy-related deaths in high-income countries. Gulp!
Why the Frowns? Let’s Unpack the Depression
So, why are pregnant women feeling down? Emma Brann, PhD, posits that it might just be a genetic family tradition—like that infamous muffin top that’s been passed down through generations. But hey, it could also be lifestyle changes and immune system shifts throwing a wrench in your hearty happiness.
How to Bounce Back: The Path to Happiness and Heart Health
Okay, enough grim statistics—let’s lighten the mood! If you’re experiencing prenatal depression, it’s essential to know you’re not alone, and there’s help out there! Dr. Christina M. Ackerman Banks recommends counseling and monitoring for cardiovascular conditions because, let’s face it, those baby blues shouldn’t come with a soundtrack of heart monitors in the background.
That means screenings, healthy diets, and exercise. Yes, exercise! It doesn’t mean you have to turn into a fitness influencer overnight, but a stroll around the block can work wonders. And please, ditch the smokes if that’s your thing—smoking and parenting should never be in the same sentence unless you’re discussing a smoky BBQ!
The Final Countdown: What Can Be Done?
Now, for the cherry on top: Amani Meaidi, MD, advocates for treating depression effectively during the perinatal period. We’re talking about making postpartum depression treatment as accessible as doughnuts in a breakroom. Imagine that—a world where new moms can snag a quick session with a therapist between diaper changes!
In summary, pregnant ladies, hold that head high! Know the risks and tackle them! And for anyone feeling a little low, remember, reaching out is the first step toward good health—both for you and your future funky little baby!
To all the mothers-to-be ready to swap parenting tales and snag a free giveaway or two, be sure to join the HaiBunda Squad community! You can click HERE—and yes, it’s free. Now, don’t just sit there; let’s tackle that circle of hell called pregnancy with some humor and heart!
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What are effective strategies for dealing with depression during pregnancy?
>How to Combat This Gloom?
Dr. Christina M. Ackerman Banks advocates for pregnant women to not just endure the dark clouds of depression, but to seek out the sunshine. She emphasizes the importance of counseling and screening for cardiovascular health during pregnancy and postpartum. After all, that’s when you can truly tackle the problem head on.
So, what’s a mom-to-be to do? Let’s find out in our exclusive interview with Dr. Banks, who’s here to shed some light on this significant issue.
Interview with Dr. Christina M. Ackerman Banks
**Interviewer**: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Banks. Can you explain why pregnant women with depression are at a higher risk of cardiovascular disease?
**Dr. Banks**: Absolutely, and thank you for having me. The link between prenatal depression and cardiovascular disease is quite significant. Depression can lead to physiological changes, such as increased inflammation and heightened stress hormones, which may impact heart health. This underscores the need for expecting mothers to prioritize their mental well-being.
**Interviewer**: That’s an important point. What should pregnant women do if they’re feeling depressed?
**Dr. Banks**: First and foremost, I encourage them to consult with their healthcare provider. Counseling can be incredibly beneficial, and it’s also important to screen for risk factors like high cholesterol or diabetes. Adopting a healthy lifestyle—eating well, exercising, and avoiding smoking—can also help mitigate risks.
**Interviewer**: Are there any specific strategies you recommend for managing anxiety and depression during pregnancy?
**Dr. Banks**: Yes! Engaging in prenatal yoga, maintaining social connections, and exploring mindfulness techniques can be very effective. Additionally, medication may be appropriate for some women, and discussing this with a healthcare professional is crucial.
**Interviewer**: Lastly, what message do you want to convey to expectant mothers who might be struggling during this time?
**Dr. Banks**: It’s vital to remember that you’re not alone and that help is available. Prioritizing mental health has long-term benefits for both mother and child, and taking proactive steps can prevent potential health issues down the line. Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it’s essential to allow yourself to seek support when needed.
**Interviewer**: Thank you so much for your insights, Dr. Banks. It’s been a pleasure to have you.
**Dr. Banks**: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this important issue. Remember, taking care of your heart starts with taking care of your mind!
As Dr. Banks stresses, every mom deserves to embrace her pregnancy journey with joy and peace of mind. If you or someone you know is facing similar challenges, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Together, we can pave the way for healthier futures!
For mothers seeking community support and parenting resources, the HaiBunda Squad welcomes you warmly. Register HERE for free and join us in our parenting journey!
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