The concept of a babymoon, or pregnancy retreat has emerged partially due to the high levels of stress that can precede birth. While many women prepare themselves for the possibility of PPD, a larger portion is unaware and fails to seek help with prenatal depression, which can be just as prevalent. A babymoon can be one way to help address the problem and find support in a caring and understanding environment. Stress is one of the leading causes of prenatal depression, and while regular management and therapy throughout a mother's nine-month journey is vital for wellbeing, a short, reflective break from the surrounding chaos of change provides a unique opportunity to bond with child and partner as well as spiritually heal.
Most women have heard of postpartum depression and it is estimated in up to 80% of parents in the first few days and weeks following birth, with as high as 25% of people experiencing long-term symptoms. Prenatal depression has similar rates, but there is often less emphasis on the problem because it is dismissed as transitory or hormonal. While it may be a temporary state with mild symptoms, the depression is real and can leave permanent emotional scarring on parents as well as weaken familial relationships.
One of the problems to identifying prenatal depression is that symptoms are sometimes identical to common ailments that typify average pregnancies such as difficulty sleeping, physical discomforts like headaches and fatigue, overeating, sudden loss of appetite, and abrupt mood swings. While all common complications, persistent negative feelings with little happiness or constant hopelessness are indicative of deeper problems. While no woman should expect a completely smooth nine months, many actually enjoy pregnancy and find their moods are greatly elevated during different stages.
Psychologists consider stress to be one of the leading causes of prenatal depression. When beginning a new family, many dynamics within the household change abruptly including relationships and ties with friends, relatives, and romantic partners. Household finances also often must undergo reconsideration, and many couples find themselves moving house, remodeling, or even changing cities in order to make necessary accommodations. Women who face complications or other health risks during pregnancy are at an even greater risk for developing depression.
A babymoon is an opportunity for mother and partner to reconnect on deeper levels, so that they both may be more centered and focused for the impending changes that they will face together. Holidays, even if only for a long weekend, have often been great turning points in people's lives, providing a rare chance for reflection. When the mind, body, and spirit are all in harmony and relaxed, there is often a clarity and change in perception that can help relieve doubts and stresses. It is also one of the last times to embrace pregnancy and the closest bond that can be experienced between two individuals. In addition to a babymoon, new mothers are encouraged to attend support groups and therapy to help cope with continued stress and develop new skills.
By: Anna Woodward
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