Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) in Pregnancy

This article is a compilation of most frequently asked questions for pregnant women compiled by our author who are experts in O&G. Over 1500 answers & tips are provided to help educate and engage the women in Singapore.

How to manage Mental Health while pregnant.

I am pregnant and feeling depressed, what can I do?

• How many of these symptoms you have had in the past two weeks:

1. sadness/crying,
2. poor appetite,
3. insomnia,
4. lack of concentration,
5. lack of energy,
6. feeling guilty,
7. lack of interest in the activities you usually enjoy.

• If you have none of these problems
• Alright, no problem! Depressive symptoms affect as many as 1 in 4 women in early pregnancy, and it is a problem that obstetricians take very seriously! Please speak to your doctor at your next appointment so they can offer the most appropriate support. In the mean time, here are some resources that you can read up on, which may help with your mood. Remember you are never alone, and your doctors are happy to support you. If you feel that you have thoughts of harming yourself, please get in touch with a doctor immediately.
• If you have 0 to 4 of these symptoms
• Depressive symptoms affect as many as 1 in 4 women in early pregnancy, but it may not constitute true depression. Here are some tips on how to keep emotionally well in the pregnancy. If you continue to experience these symptoms or would like additional support, please speak to your doctor at your next appointment so they can refer you to the most appropriate help. If you feel unable to cope or have feelings of harming yourself at any point in time, please get in touch with a doctor immediately.
• If you have 5 to 7 of these symptoms
• It appears that your symptoms are quite extensive, and your emotional health is something that we take very seriously. We would like to advice you to make an early appointment with your obstetrician, so he/she can provide the most appropriate support!

I am feeling very stressed / anxious in the pregnancy, what should I do?

• It is very common for expecting mums to feel are stressed during their 9 months. Let us know which of these describes you better, so we can offer the most appropriate help.
• Research shows that pregnancy isn’t affected by typical stress levels. If you feel that you are able to cope well with your everyday stress, then your baby will be able to cope just fine, too. Here are some advice that may help you manage your stress better!
• Stress that isn’t well managed can take its toll, particularly if it continues into the second and third trimesters. In addition to the tips offered here, we would advice you to join a support group or see a mental health specialist to help you along your journey.
• “If dealing with your current state of pregnancy gets too overwhelming for you, establishing a routine will help you feel better in control of your life. Try working your activities and schedule so that you will be meaningfully engaged. Also, do allow flexibility to changes in your schedule, as you will need much rest. If dealing with your current state of pregnancy gets too overwhelming for you, establishing a routine will help you feel better in control of your life. Try working your activities and schedule so that you will be meaningfully engaged. Also, do allow flexibility to changes in your schedule, as you will need much rest.
• Taking care of yourself means allowing you to have time for yourself to rest or to do little things that you enjoy. It will do you a world of good to be out of the house for a breather or fresh air, even for a short period of time. You may even want to go window-shopping or to catch up with a friend, if you are allowed to walk about.
• Taking care of yourself also means taking care of what you eat, so that you have the right nutrition needed to carry your baby. Light exercise would help build up your immune system and prepare you with the energy needed for your pregnancy and childbirth. Please consult your obstetrician for advice if you are not sure what is appropriate for you.
• Talking to your partner or friend, a doctor or counselor about your thoughts and feelings is also a great way of releasing your pent-up emotions. You should be able to get your emotional support from your partner, but someone with symptoms of depression or anxiety should benefit from seeking advice and treatment from a specialist.
• Another way to keep your days going is to write your thoughts and feelings down in a diary. Having a baby is a life-changing and significant time for you. Writing down your thoughts could help you to keep track and gain a better perspective of what happened and how things have affected you.
• Coping with pregnancy can be an enormous stress for many people. Do not be embarrassed about getting the help that you need, may it be with household chores or caring for family members. You would need to rest and converse your energy for your health.