Hormones
During pregnancy, your body experiences significant hormonal shifts to support the growth and development of your baby. These hormonal changes can have an intense impact on your emotions, including having mood swings during pregnancy and sometimes, people even feel angry when pregnant.
Specifically, pregnancy often fluctuates your estrogen and progesterone hormones. These hormones influence your serotonin and dopamine levels which regulate your mood. As a result, you may find yourself experiencing mood swings in pregnancy, increased sensitivity, or even heightened emotions such as joy or anxiety.
Body and body image changes
Your body undergoes remarkable transformations during pregnancy, including weight gain, changes in posture, changes to your skin and more. These physical changes can sometimes trigger emotions about body image and self-esteem.
How you feel is completely personal. Some expectant parents may feel proud and awe-inspired by their body’s ability to nurture life, while others may struggle with feelings of insecurity or discomfort. It’s important to remember that these feelings are normal and part of the journey of pregnancy.
Stress
Pregnancy can be a time of excitement, but it can also bring stress about financial concerns, relationship adjustments or worries about childbirth and parenting.
When you’re pregnant, your body can heighten its stress response system, including cortisol levels. This can lead to feelings of anxiety, mood swings or irritability during pregnancy. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, regular exercise and seeking support from loved ones or health care providers can mitigate these emotional changes during pregnancy.
Fatigue
Pregnancy often bring fatigue or exhaustion for many reasons including changing hormones, difficulty sleeping, stress and more. When you are exhausted, it can further heighten your feelings and make you feel emotional while pregnant.
Mood swings for a pregnant woman are very normal, especially when you are tired. Taking time to rest, prioritize sleep and maintain a healthy diet can help alleviate fatigue-related emotions and support overall emotional well-being during pregnancy.