Emotional changes during pregnancy
For the person who is pregnant
Along with the physical changes, pregnancy can also trigger emotional, psychological, and social changes. Preparing for the arrival of a baby can give rise to numerous questions and cause stress. Take the time you need to adapt to these new realities (see Becoming parents).
The changes associated with pregnancy often give rise to what may seem like conflicting emotions. For example, you may find yourself swinging between joy, worry, denial, excitement, and even sadness. The important thing is to acknowledge your emotions rather than fight them. Let your emotions come and let yourself feel them. Talking about your emotions with those close to you can do you good and help you get the support you need. You can also talk to friends and family or others in a similar situation (e.g., migrant families, single-parent families, sexually and gender-diverse families) who are expecting a child or have recently experienced a pregnancy. This can help you see that you’re not alone in the changes and emotions you’re experiencing. Most regions have places where parents-to-be can meet (see Prenatal activities).
You may also notice that you don’t share the same emotions or concerns as others. Remember, each context is unique, and every pregnancy is experienced differently.
To adapt to these changes, you can do activities such as meditating or walking. Try to find what is most helpful or what makes you feel good.
During pregnancy, it’s important to find ways to support your emotional well-being. The online tool You, Me, Baby provides various strategies to help you take care of yourself.
Pregnancy can be a very emotional time. Don’t hesitate to share what you’re feeling with people you trust. If you need more support, talk to your prenatal care provider.
During pregnancy, you may attract more attention. Family, friends, and even strangers will often make comments, sharing remarks on your weight or appearance or offering all sorts of advice.
Some people are comfortable with and appreciate the extra attention. Others may feel pressured and prefer to avoid the comments. If you feel this way, don’t hesitate to say so and set your limits. You can always choose not to respond to questions and comments about your pregnancy.
The changes and emotions brought on by pregnancy can be intense, and it is not unusual to experience depression during this period. About one in ten women will experience depression during pregnancy.
If you find yourself feeling sad or irritable most days or lose interest and enthusiasm for your daily activities over more than two weeks, or if you or your loved ones are worried, talk to your prenatal care team.
For the expectant father or partner
Future fathers, partners, and non-birthing parents also face their share of changes during a pregnancy. Some wonder if they will be able to live up to expectations. Others have questions about their new family situation or worry they won’t agree with their partner about the level of involvement each will have with the child.
The simple fact of knowing that you’re expecting a child may not be enough to make the pregnancy tangible for you. Attending prenatal checkups and ultrasound appointments, listening to the baby’s heartbeat, and feeling their first movements are events that can help you start building a relationship with your baby.
Your relationship will become more real if you talk to and touch your baby in the womb. Even so, you may only become truly conscious of your new reality when the baby is born.
If you know other new or expectant parents, don’t hesitate to ask them about their experiences. These conversations can provide concrete answers and help you embrace your new role. Participating in prenatal sessions can also help make you more confident in your abilities.
For more information, see the section Becoming parents.
For the couple
The arrival of a first child or the expansion of your family brings its share of changes and adjustments. The concerns you have won’t necessarily be the same and may not come at the same time.
When you experience this journey with someone else, the relationship you have is important because it’s the foundation of your family to be.
You may wonder what the reaction will be if you talk about your fears or share your doubts. Regardless of what you’re feeling, it’s important to communicate. Communicating allows you both to express your emotions and points of view so you can stay united on the path to parenthood. Your relationship as a couple is important as it forms the basis of your family-to-be.
For the family
If you already have children, you may have the impression you are neglecting the older ones. Fatigue and the discomforts of pregnancy may change the way you look after them. You may feel guilty or wonder how you’ll be able to love all your children and give each one the attention they deserve.
For the other parent and your family and friends, your pregnancy can be a special opportunity to build stronger ties with your older children.
jealous or even angry at the idea of welcoming a new member into the family. They may be worried about where they will fit in during the pregnancy and after the baby’s birth.
Reassure them and help them accept the baby on the way by talking to them about the upcoming birth. You can get them actively involved in preparations for baby’s arrival—by helping decorate the baby’s room or drawing baby a picture, for example. It’s a good idea to tell them that you still love them and demonstrate it by showing your affection.
For more information, see Reaction of older children.