Managing Suicidal Feelings During Pregnancy: A Guide
Pregnancy, a time of joy and anticipation, can also be a period of great stress and emotional turmoil for some women. Recent research suggests that between 3% and 33% of women experience suicidal ideation during pregnancy, with rates varying widely depending on various factors [1][2].
Risk Factors and Contributors
Mental Health History
Women with a history of depression are significantly more likely to experience suicidal ideation during pregnancy. One study revealed that they are 13 times more likely to have such thoughts [1]. Anxiety, bipolar or psychotic disorders also increase the risk [2].
Past Trauma and Partner Violence
Women who have experienced trauma or intimate partner violence are at a higher risk of suicidal thoughts during pregnancy [1][5].
Socioeconomic Stress
Low income and economic instability are associated with increased suicidal ideation in pregnant women. Rates of suicidal ideation among low-income pregnant women have ranged from about 4.6% to 23% [1][2].
Race and Demographic Factors
Black women and younger pregnant women show higher rates of suicidal ideation and suicidal behaviour during pregnancy and postpartum periods [1][2][3].
Feelings of Shame and Isolation
Emotional pressures and societal expectations can lead to feelings of shame, making it difficult for women to seek help [1].
HIV Infection
Pregnant women living with HIV have shown a high prevalence of suicidal ideation, with factors like educational level, GDP, and partner violence influencing this risk [5].
Postpartum Changes
Although self-harm risk is lower during pregnancy compared to non-pregnancy, self-harm risk increases after delivery, peaking between 6-12 months postpartum [3].
Seeking Help and Available Resources
Therapy and Support Groups
Therapy can help process emotions, get to the root of suicidal thoughts, build effective coping skills, and support during this challenging time. Support groups, both online and in-person, offer incredible benefits and healing [4]. Online therapy is also available to support women through suicidal ideations during pregnancy [4].
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT) are recognized and respected therapeutic techniques for perinatal mental health [4].
Mental Health Screening
Your OB-GYN can help with mental well-being during pregnancy and screen for perinatal mental health concerns [4].
Emergency Services
If you are in immediate danger, call or text 988 [6].
Postpartum Support International
Postpartum Support International is a valuable resource for help and support during and after pregnancy [6].
Breaking the Stigma
The stigma surrounding mental health can prevent many women from seeking help when they are experiencing suicidal thoughts during pregnancy. It's crucial to remember that effective treatment is available, and it can change your life for the better. Don't hesitate to ask for help.
[1] American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology. (2018). Suicidal Ideation and Attempts Among Women During Pregnancy and Postpartum. [2] BMJ Open. (2017). Suicidal Ideation During Pregnancy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. [3] Journal of Affective Disorders. (2018). Suicide Risk in Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. [4] National Institute of Mental Health. (2021). Perinatal and Postpartum Depression in Women. [5] Journal of Women's Health. (2018). Suicidal Ideation Among HIV-Infected Women During Pregnancy and Postpartum. [6] National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. (2021). National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
- Women with a history of depression, anxiety, bipolar or psychotic disorders are significantly more likely to experience suicidal ideation during pregnancy, with one study revealing they are 13 times more likely to have such thoughts.
- Low income and economic instability are associated with increased suicidal ideation in pregnant women, with rates ranging from about 4.6% to 23%.
- Black women and younger pregnant women show higher rates of suicidal ideation and suicidal behavior during pregnancy and postpartum periods.
- Emotional pressures and societal expectations can lead to feelings of shame, making it difficult for women to seek help.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT) are recognized and respected therapeutic techniques for perinatal mental health, available both online and in-person.
- If you are in immediate danger, call or text 988 for emergency services, or seek help from Postpartum Support International, a valuable resource for help and support during and after pregnancy.
