Pregnancy is a period of major changes, including physical, emotional, and mental. With the impact of changing weather added to this, it becomes too much. Mood swings in pregnancy are common, and the monsoon season tends to worsen them. The depressing clouds, absence of sunlight, moisture in the air, and constant interference with routine can all play their part in influencing the mood of a pregnant woman.
Dr Bandita Sinha, Consultant Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Navi Mumbai, states, "Monsoon brings in the change that is needed, but it emotionally unsettles an expectant woman." She describes how hormonal changes during pregnancy already render women more emotionally vulnerable, and monsoon weather can reinforce those changes.
Why Mood Swings Are More Common in Monsoon
Here's what leads to changes in emotions during pregnancy during the rainy season:
- Sunlight deprivation may decrease serotonin levels. This hormone regulates mood.
- Excessive humidity can lead to lethargy, restlessness, and physical unease.
- Increased possibility of sickness or infections from damp environments may increase anxiety.
- Deviation from daily activities or prolonged confinement at home may lead to a lack of physical movement.
- Pregnancy hormones, on top of everything else, make the woman even more sensitive and susceptible to mood swings.
Dr Sinha shares that in spite of all this, there are easy ways to keep the emotional balance going this monsoon season.
5 Pregnancy Mental Health Tips From a Gynaecologist
These are five easy steps you can follow to keep your mental balance consistent this season:
1. Get Moving with Gentle Exercises
- Do light prenatal exercises or take a gentle yoga session.
- Relaxes and releases endorphins (happy hormones).
- Change body alignment to reduce stress and improve sleep quality.
2. Soak Up Natural Light
- Even when it's overcast, hang out where there's plenty of light, such as balconies or windows.
- Natural light contributes to higher levels of serotonin.
- Enhances general mood and energy levels.
3. Eat Smart
- What you eat can actually affect how you feel.
- Boost consumption of foods high in omega-3, such as walnuts, flaxseeds, and fish.
- Experiment with substituting sweet treats with fruit.
- Cut down on caffeine, but a small cup of green tea or black coffee is okay to perk you up.
4. Stay Social and Connected
- Talk to friends and family regularly.
- Join prenatal support groups online or in person.
- Sharing your feelings can fight off isolation and lift your spirits.
5. Seek Professional Help When Needed
- If you’re feeling persistently low, anxious, or overwhelmed:
- Talk to your gynaecologist.
- Consider speaking with a mental health counsellor.
- There is no shame in asking for help—it’s a sign of strength, not weakness.
A Journal of Affective Disorders study concluded that women during pregnancy are impacted by seasonal changes, particularly monsoons or winter, as they have lower exposure to light and limited activity. Pregnant women are more vulnerable to seasonal mood disturbances due to hormonal susceptibility and less physical activity. This indicates that the weather does have an actual influence on emotional well-being when pregnant.
Conclusion
Monsoon months can test your mood, particularly when you're pregnant. But with minimal lifestyle changes, such as movement every day, healthy food, exposure to daylight, and emotional support, you can maintain your inner equilibrium. Pregnancy's mental health is as essential as its physical health. Remain aware, remain well-supported, and do not be afraid of reaching out to your loved ones or experts if needed. You're not alone.