The first trimester is marked by 'tears and forgetfulness', according to Parents magazine. "You're wearing your emotions on your fingertips, so you're much more reactive to everything," Jennifer L. Hartstein, Ph.D., a family therapist in New York City tells the outlet. "After your meltdown, you can get freaked out, thinking, What is wrong with me? This will get you upset all over again. Just remember that it's normal, and try to laugh it off and move on."
Ever heard of pregnancy brain? This occurs in the early stages of pregnancy and is the result of sky-high levels of progesterone or the "calming hormone." Dr. Puryear told the outlet, "When I was pregnant with Parker, I once put my older son Peter's Legos in the refrigerator, and then I tried to serve him a cup of keys to drink!" says Caroline, a mom of two who lives in Oklahoma City.
Don't worry about all the tears because the second trimester delivers unbridled giddiness! Morning sickness dissipates and you begin to feel the baby move. It is possible that instead of spontaneous crying you will experience spontaneous giggles. In addition, you are more likely to be "in the mood" frequently thanks to all the blood pumping through your body.
Thought the blues were over? Well, it all comes back around in the third trimester, which is marked by crankiness and power-nesting. The euphoric stage ends and pregnant women find themselves crabby and uncomfortable. There is an increase in oxytocin, the nesting hormone, which can manifest into powerful urges to clean and organize.
So how do you deal with all the ups and downs?! First, take comfort in knowing you aren't alone and that the out of control hormones are all a part of the process. Talk to other moms or soon-to-be moms for some emotional solidarity and advice. You can laugh or cry together. "If you're crying consistently and feeling down for more than two weeks without any pleasurable moments in between, or feeling worthless or hopeless, ask your healthcare provider for help," says Dr. Puryear. Postpartum depression can begin even before babies are born.
